Madson, Ryan

Ryan Madson got a couple of chances at the brass ring for Phils during a difficult season for the bullpen in general and for Brad Lidge in particular. Madson didn't exactly grab it and run with it. .500 is not the number you shoot for as a closer and Madson blew three of his six June chances. The end of the season was an ugly matter two, with Madson giving up runs in four straight games at the end of August and then on back-to-back nights in September at home against the hated Mets, Madson nearly coughed up the win one night and then outright blew the save the following night.

It looks like the Phillies will open the season more or less the same way as last season, with Lidge the closer designate and Madson nominally the next in line. Danys Baez was brought in and of this writing was pitching well in spring training.

Madson is bets viewed as a handcuff to Lidge or a speculative closer. It's doubtful the organization would want to run with Madson very long as their closer. He's an excellent option in holds leagues. 4-8-3.20-1.25-75. 80IP