I got that tingly feeling

[kingmike74]

A few times a year, I get a gut feeling about players and my feeling tells me that Madson will be the Fightin's closer longer than some think.

Do I hear any seconds to this thought?

[BigL531]

I doubt it. Manual keeps saying Lidge is his guy, so when he comes off the DL I expect him to go back to the 9th inning role.

[RedHopeful]

I doubt it. Manual keeps saying Lidge is his guy, so when he comes off the DL I expect him to go back to the 9th inning role.

Undoubtedly, the manager should try to publicly stay confident about his high profile closer. Deep down, he's not an idiot though. If Lidge continues to have problems once he gets back, Manuel will make a change.

[DbacksRback]

I doubt it. Manual keeps saying Lidge is his guy, so when he comes off the DL I expect him to go back to the 9th inning role.

Undoubtedly, the manager should try to publicly stay confident about his high profile closer. Deep down, he's not an idiot though. If Lidge continues to have problems once he gets back, Manuel will make a change.

There is no doubt Lidge will be given another shot but if Madson is sharp(which I believe he will be) a few blown saves could cause a switch. It just seems hitters are laying off the slider from Lidge now and just waiting on Fb's. Ive seen a lot less swings at sliders in the dirt compared to last year. I think his stuff is still there and he can be solid, but he is starting to get figured aout a little.

[fiz]

Manuel is old school. He will be loyal to Lidge to a fault. However, as stated above, he is no fool. If Madson is lights out, I think Lidge will come back and "be worked back into the role" and pitch in some non-9th inning situations to see if his problems are worked out. If they are, he'll resume closing. But Manuel won't keep trotting him out there with a bum knee and shattered confidence. Managers usually stand behind their guys, but when their back is up against the wall like it will be if Madson is solid, their hand is forced to do what is right for the team, which everyone may see is put Madson in for the 9th.

[BitterDodgerFan]

i disagree, i think they said he didn't really have to go on the DL. it was more a performance thing than injury, right? then he should be closing again when he comes back.

[Maris09]

The way I see it, most managers feel like the 8th inning is just as important as the 9th inning.
If Lidge comes back and is remotely effective, he will close due to loyalty and contract.....and Madson will be solid in the 8th.
If he continues to look horrible then ya, all bets are off.