Lidge uncertain if he wants to return in 2012

After being released by the Washington Nationals, former Phillie Brad Lidge is uncertain if he wants to pitch again this year. 


Lidge underwent sports hernia surgery in late April, but insists he's healthy. The veteran reliever however is undecided on his plans for the rest of 2012. 

"I am healthy," Lidge said in an email to ESPN.com, "but based on the path I would have to take to get back to the bigs this year, I am not sure I will be jumping back in right now. No official decision one way or another, but mostly I am not happy that I rushed back from surgery before I was ready only to be designated for assignment a couple of days later."

The 35-year-old signed a $1 million contract with the Nats in January. He went 0-1 with a 9.64 ERA in 11 appearances with Washington, and was designated for assignment on June 17 before being released. 

You may remember Lidge's unbelievable 2008 campaign with the Phillies. He posted a 1.95 ERA and converted 41 of 41 save opportunities. Lidge also struck out Tampa Bay's Eric Hinske for the final out of the World Series.