Phillies Future (Possibly) Without Lidge and Oswalt: Fan's Opinion

By now, many Philadelphia Phillies fans have heard the team has declined options on reliever Brad Lidge and starter Roy Oswalt. Opinions by many fans have been voiced over team blogs and social media networks, both for and against the moves by the team. Some feel there are better options available through free agency and the farm system, while others feel that both players' contributions cannot be replaced. Statistically speaking, arguments can be made for both sides.

Team GM Ruben Amaro, Jr. has commented on the move, stating that the team would like both players back for the upcoming 2012 season. After further research, however, one can make an argument that the team can do better by moving on without the two pitchers.

Lidge, a reliever who turns 35 in December, showed signs of his former greatness throughout the second half of the 2011 season. The two time All Star posted decent numbers with a 0-1 record and 1.40 ERA, but that is not to overshadow his recent performance over the past 3 seasons. Since 2008, a year in which he saved 41 regular season games with no blown saves, he has posted a 1-11 record, with a 4.73 ERA and was 59 of 75 in save opportunities. Those are not respectable numbers for a reliever that makes $12.5 million per season. By opening Lidge's roster spot, the team could make a play for an upcoming free agent, or call up one of their highly touted prospects from the minor leagues.

On the other end, Oswalt has pitched very well when healthy. Since joining the team in 2010, Oswalt has posted a 16-11 record over 35 starts, while supporting a 2.96 ERA. However, there is speculation on whether the 34 year old right hander's back can hold up over an entire season. There is also the problem of where he would be utilized, as this past season we witnessed the rise of Vance Worley from reliever to starter. Oswalt's roster spot could make for the same case as Lidge's, especially when you have a team like the Phillies, who sport an estimated $173 million payroll that is bound to increase before opening day in 2012.

The front office for the Phillies is known for surprise acquisitions (Cliff Lee, 2010), and this off season should be no different. Expect the front office to make the best possible moves in an attempt to stay contenders. If we have seen the last days of Lidge and Oswalt in Philadelphia, we shall remember the contributions each made for the team in their time here, and wish them good luck with the rest of their careers and in future endeavors.