Brad Lidge Solves Problem, Stops Tipping Pitches

If you traded Brad Lidge, go jump off a bridge. The mystery of the Houston closer's collapse has been solved as Lidge just learned he was tipping his pitches: placing his hands in one position when he was ready to throw a fastball, another when his slider was coming. According to Houston Chronicle columnist Richard Justice, since Lidge made the discovery he has thrown two innings and required only 22 pitches to retire every batter. Lidge told Justice that batters had been able to lay off his slider, watching it bounce harmlessly in the dirt, then sit on his fastball, causing Lidge to be overly careful with it. The explanation figures, as Lidge has lost none of his skills.