LIDGE TO PHILADELPHIA
The Philadelphia Phillies acquired reliever Brad Lidge and infielder Eric Bruntlett from the Houston Astros for outfielder Michael Bourn, reliever Geoff Geary and third baseman Mike Costanzo.
What does it give the Philadelphia Phillies
Lidge becomes Philadelphia's new closer, which will bump Brett Myers back into the Phillies' starting rotation. As for Bruntlett, he'll probably play all over the infield and possibly even the outfield corners. If Lidge can regain past form, he'll be a valuable asset for Philly, since they need Myers to provide quality innings behind young ace Cole Hamels.
What does it give the Houston Astros
The Astros had been trying to move Lidge for quite some time, and they finally decided to pull the trigger. Bourn is expected to take over in center field, which will allow Hunter Pence to move to right field. Geary will likely pitch in middle relief, while Costanzo is the wild card in the trade. He immediately becomes Houston's top third base prospect. While he's not expected to start 2008 in the majors, he may see action later in the season.
Fantasy impact
