Free Agent Pitcher Brad Lidge Signs 1 Year Deal with Nationals

Brad Lidge, whose storybook season helped the Phillies win the 2008 World Series, has signed a one-year contract with the Washington Nationals.

Lidge’s contract is worth $1 million and includes incentive bonuses. The 35-year-old righthander, who became a free agent at the end of the 2011 season, passed a physical exam earlier this week. Lidge, who stays in the National League East after a four-year run in Philadelphia, will add veteran stability to a young and talented Washington bullpen.

Lidge’s time in Philadelphia included dramatic highs and excruciating lows.

The lows were difficult. He struggled on the mound in 2009 and later battled knee, elbow and shoulder injuries.

The highs were magnificent and unforgettable. In 2008, his first season with the Phils, Lidge was a perfect 48 for 48 in save chances. His final save came in clinching Game 5 of the World Series on a strikeout of Tampa Bay’s Eric Hinske. As the packed house at Citizens Bank Park erupted in joy, Lidge dropped to his knees, looked heavenward and shouted, “Oh, my God, we just won the World Series!” The photograph of him looking to the skies and embracing catcher Carlos Ruiz is one of the most iconic in Philadelphia sports history.

A shoulder injury limited Lidge to just 25 games in 2012 and he readily admitted that his fastball had lost some life. He allowed 32 base-runners in 19 1/3 innings, but was able to survive with his favorite weapon, the slider. Lidge allowed just three runs in those 19 1/3 innings while pitching in a setup role for the Phils.

Lidge loved pitching in Philadelphia and had hoped to return to the Phils, but the club’s interest was only lukewarm because of his health history. The pitcher has spent the winter diligently building strength in his shoulder as he looks for a productive season as a setup man in Washington.

Lidge has remained in suburban Philadelphia this winter and signing with Washington will allow his young daughter to finish the school year in the area.

E-mail Jim Salisbury at jsalisbury@comcastsportsnet.com