Hot Stove Rivalry: Who’s Got the Better Closer?

J Platt,  Hot Stove Philly – I think to give an actual answer on this you need to factor in a healthy Billy Wagner. Even putting aside all the ill-will I have for Wagner, the better closer is Brad Lidge. While Lidge hasn’t been as sharp as he was earlier this season (which relates to some arm tendonitis), he’s 34 for 34 in save opportunities this year. Also Wagner doesn’t possess an actual out-pitch, whereas Lidge has arguably the best slider in baseball. Not just one either. One he can throw for a strike and one he buries that batter’s chase.

Jeff Freier, Hot Stove New York - The Mets don’t really have a closer right now (I guess it’s Ayala) so the answer is Lidge. But when Billy Wagner’s healthy the answer is…still Lidge. He seems to be past his Houston meltdown phase, and Wagner always seems to have a meltdown coming right around the corner. Neither is of the lights-out, game-over variety that Mariano Rivera is, but I’d take Lidge right now. Actually, can I take him? Please?

Jon Atwood, Hot Stove Philly - Hands down the better closer is Brad Lidge. Lights Out Lidge has not blown a single save this season, whereas Billy Wagner has blown seven, many of which have come in very important games. Lidge’s 2.18 ERA has largely come from just a few outings, most in non-save situations, including one game in which he gave up five runs without recording an out. He has given up just four runs all season in games in which he has recorded a save. Lidge has 33 saves in 33 chances, the only closer in the league to do so.