Jimmy Rollins to the DL

Jimmy Rollins is expected to miss 2-4 weeks with a strained right calf.  Rollins hurt it during warmups a few games ago and was pleased with the medical results because he thought it was worse than it really is.  He’s off to a great start batting .391 so far.  I doubt this will slow down the Phillies.  They have so much offense that losing Rollins for a few weeks shouldn’t be that big of a deal.  Juan Castro will get most of the time at shortstop now, and Victorino will take over the leadoff spot.

Brad Lidge Hoping for April Return

Brad Lidge is recovering from offseason surgeries on his elbow and knee.  He has been pitching in Minor League games and is aiming for a return in late April.  Ryan Madson has been closing out games this season in Philly, and Lidge might be eased back into the closers role when he returns.  Personally, I think Madson should keep the closers role.  I have no idea how Lidge went 48-48 in saves in 2008, but I doubt he’ll ever have another season like that.  I think he showed his true colors last year when he blew the most saves in the league, and coming off 2 surgeries this offseason isn’t going to be easy.

-Matt