MILWAUKEE — The Phillies suddenly are auditioning potential replacements for struggling closer Brad Lidge and juggling their rotation with Pedro Martinez bothered by a stiff neck.
General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Friday the team will consider other options for closing games, adding that manager Charlie Manuel could keep Lidge in the mix.
“I don’t think any decision’s been made officially,” Amaro said. “I think Charlie’s going to put people in to pitch in the seventh, eighth, ninth inning that he feels are going to be most effective. It doesn’t necessarily mean Lidge isn’t one of those guys.”
The Phillies also decided to scratch Martinez from his start today against the Brewers and replace him with right-hander Kyle Kendrick. It’s not clear when Martinez will pitch again.
Footnotes.
Giants shortstop Edgar Renteria will have season-ending surgery on his right elbow to remove bone chips and spurs.
• Rangers reliever Eddie Guardado, known as “Everyday Eddie,” said he is probably going to retire after this season so that he can become an “everyday daddy” to his three children.
• Cubs first baseman Derrek Lee was out of the lineup to receive treatment for neck spasms, the result of a congratulatory pat on the helmet from pitcher Angel Guzman the previous night. The Associated Press
