Brad Lidge
The man who winked his way into Astros history with a devastating slider and an unwavering arm.
Brad Lidge is a defining figure in Houston Astros history, best known as the fiery closer who anchored the bullpen during the franchise's rise to prominence in the mid-2000s. Acquired from Philadelphia after a controversial trade involving Roy Oswalt and Jason Lane, Lidge quickly became the face of the team's late-inning reliability.
- Role
- Closing Relief Pitcher
- Signature Move
- The 'Lidge' Wink
- Key Achievement
- 2005 National League Championship Series MVP
- Status
- Retired
Lore & Background
The most iconic moment of his career occurred in the 2005 National League Championship Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, where he recorded five saves to help propel Houston to the World Series. His signature 'wink' after securing a save became an instant cultural phenomenon and a symbol of confidence that resonated with fans at Enron Field and Minute Maid Park alike.
In Their Own Story
The air inside Enron Field was thick with humidity and tension as the score remained tied in the ninth inning. Lidge stepped onto the mound, adjusting his cap before locking eyes on the batter. He delivered a sharp slider that snapped the bat into oblivion, securing the final out. As he walked toward the dugout, he flashed his trademark wink to the roaring crowd, a silent promise that Houston had survived another night.
Reader's Guide
His signature moments include the historic 2005 NLCS performance where he saved all five games, earning him series MVP honors despite not being on the roster for the regular season finale. His ability to dominate left-handed hitters with his slider made him a nightmare for opposing lineups during the late innings. Lidge's impact extended beyond statistics; his leadership and charismatic personality helped build a winning culture in Houston. Even after leaving the team, his legacy remains deeply embedded in the memories of fans who witnessed his dominant performances at Minute Maid Park.
Did You Know?
- Brad Lidge was traded to the Astros in exchange for Roy Oswalt and Jason Lane, a move that initially shocked many baseball observers.
- He holds the record for most saves in a single postseason series by an Astros pitcher during the 2005 NLCS.
- Lidge's 'wink' celebration became so popular it was featured on merchandise sold at Minute Maid Park.
- Despite his success, he never won a World Series with Houston due to their loss to the Chicago White Sox in 2005.