Phillies closer Brad Lidge expected to be reinstated from disabled list on Thursday

Lidge expected to return Thursday

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge is expected to be reinstated from the 15-day disabled list on Thursday.

Lidge has been sidelined with a sprained right knee since June 7.

“That’s more than likely what we’ll do,” Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said before Wednesday night’s game at Tampa Bay.

Lidge is 0-3 with a 7.27 ERA and 13 saves in 19 chances after going 48 for 48 last year, including the postseason. The right-hander threw a scoreless inning for Single-A Clearwater on Tuesday night.

Also, Manuel said left-hander Scott Eyre, out with strained left calf since June 12, could be back in the next seven to 10 days.