HORSHAM, Pa., Oct. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Charlie Manuel is a big man in baseball. But it wasn't until after last year's championship run managing Philadelphia's professional baseball team that he realized quite how big.

Philadelphia closer Brad Lidge will retain his job despite his 11th blown save, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said on the team's Web site. To date, Lidge is 0-8 with a 7.48 ERA and 31 saves in 42 opportunities, the latest Wednesday night after RBI singles by Jorge Cantu and Brett Carroll led to a 7-6 loss to the Florida Marlins. He was our closer last year and we signed him to be our closer now, Manuel said.

It took two extra nights, but the Phillies have finally put an end to Philadelphia's 25-year major sports title drought.

Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie Manuel was unable to attend Friday's media briefing prior to Game 2 of the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers after learning of the death of his mother.

Pat Burrell, Chase Utley and the Philadelphia Phillies had more than enough power to offset Manny Ramirez in the NL Championship Series opener.