Astros sign Lidge for 2007; three more to go

The consistently inconsistent Brad Lidge signed with the Astros for the 2007 season for $5.35 million plus incentives yesterday. We imagine he looked much like he does in this picture at landing such a sweet deal with everyone's favorite team.

By the numbers, the recently unpopular Lidge isn't all that bad. With 104 strikeouts, he was second in the Major Leagues last year and had 32 saves in 38 opportunities. His 5.28 ERA is less than stellar though, and he struggled so much in 2006 that he lost his position as closer to Dan Wheeler. GM Tim Purpura says that he will start Lidge in the closer role again this year, and it sounds like he has high hopes:

We are very pleased to have Brad signed prior to the exchange of arbitration figures. We are looking forward to a great 2007 season with him as our closer once again. Brad is one of the leaders of our team, and we are expecting great results from him this season.

Utility man Mike Lamb also signed a one-year deal this week, but there are still three arbitration-eligible Astros veterans left to snag before the season starts: third-baseman Morgan Ensberg, shortstop Adam Everett, and outfielder Jason Lane. The three were all made offers yesterday as well, but haven't quite sealed any deals yet. If the players are unable to come to an agreement with Astros management, arbitration hearings will begin in February.