We think you're near Los Angeles

Ex-Astros closer Brad Lidge agrees to terms on one-year contract with Nationals

Former Astros closer Brad Lidge agreed to terms Thursday on a one-year, $1 million contract (plus incentives) with the Nationals.

Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly.com tweeted the financial details of the deal, while MLB.com's Bill Ladson reported the agreement via Twitter.

Lidge, 35, went 0-2 with a 1.40 ERA and one save in 25 relief appearances for the Phillies during an injury-plagued 2011 season. 

The hard-throwing veteran battled a right posterior rotator cuff strain and soreness in his right elbow throughout last season.

Philadelphia declined his $12.5 million option for 2012.

ESPNBoston.com reported in November that Lidge's agent, Rex Gary, said his client was willing to close or be a setup man in 2012.

Lidge reportedly drew interest from the Red Sox, Colorado Rockies and New York Mets before agreeing to a deal with the Nationals.

Advertisement

He will join a talented Washington bullpen that features Drew Storen, 2011 NL All-Star Tyler Clippard, Henry Rodriguez and Sean Burnett.

Lidge, a two-time NL All-Star, played a critical role in helping to lead the Astros to their first ever World Series appearance in 2005.

He posted 123 saves for the Astros over six seasons, but was traded to the Phillies in November 2007 as part of a deal for Michael Bourn.

Lidge regained his dominance in 2008 by becoming the first closer in Philadelphia history to be perfect during the season in converting saves.

His 48-for-48 in save opportunities opened the door for the Phillies to win the NL East and later the 2008 World Series title.

He was named the 2008 NL Comeback Player of the Year, the NL Rolaids Relief Man of the Year and the DHL Delivery Man of the Year.

Lidge has experienced ups and downs with the Phillies since 2008, as evident with compiling a total of 59 saves over the last three seasons.

The veteran reliever is 26-31 with a 3.44 ERA and 223 saves over 92 relief appearances during his 10 career major league seasons.

For the latest Astros news, click on the Subscribe button at the top of the page. Also, be sure to follow Houston Astros Examiner Stephen Goff on Facebook and Twitter, or email sgoff80@yahoo.com.

, Houston Astros Examiner

Stephen Goff is a sports writer who covers the Houston Astros for Examiner.com. The former NCAA Division I student-athlete and coach has been covering the Astros since January 2009. ...

Don't miss...