One new MLB The Show legend for each team: American League West

Houston Astros

Brad Lidge

Brad Lidge’s peak was fairly short-lived, but when he was at his best, he was one of the best closing pitchers in the game. His two best seasons were in 2004 and 2005 when he pitched to a 2.07 ERA, 2.04 FIP, and 1.02 WHIP in 165.1 frames with the Houston Astros. Lidge was striking out over 30% of the batters he faced when that was not common for a power reliever. His 39.4% K-rate was by far the best in the league. He was also great at limiting walks with an 8% BB%, and hits with a hits/9 of 6.3 and opponent average clocking in below the Mendoza line.

Lidge’s 2004 season would be best commemorated with a Breakout or Retro Finest card. This was his best year in multiple statistics, including ERA, FIP, WHIP, strikeout rate, hits/9, opponent batting average, and innings pitched. An endgame Lidge card could have 35 stamina, and 125 hits and K’s per 9 with 90 BB/9 and control.