MLB: Phillies closer Brad Lidge to have knee surgery

Philadelphia Phillies newest closer Brad Lidge hurt his knee yesterday during batting practice and will now undergo arthroscopic surgery—Lidge is expected to miss 3-6 weeks. Lidge, who was traded to the Phillies in the offseason, caught his spike in the mound when he made his first pitch during batting practice. Lidge injured the same knee he had surgery on back in October. Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said that Tom Gordon will close if Lidge is not ready for their opening day game against the Washington Nationals on March 31st. Lidge was optimistic about his injury and his recovery time. “Right now, if we had to do this during the season, then obviously you’re missing a big chunk of the season,” Lidge said. “I definitely need a few bullpen sessions, but I feel like my arm is ahead of schedule so after a week I should be able to throw again.” [link]