Brad Lidge lightning out of the bullpen: after an impressive showing last season, Houston closer is expected to continue his dominance in the late innings in 2005.

AS OCTAVIO DOTEL STRUGGLED through the start of last season, hardly any Astros fan could forgive the club for trading Billy Wagner to the Phillies.

The reality of the situation, however, is that the Wagner trade might have been the type of deal that genuinely helps both parties. It freed up the money the Astros used for Andy Pettitte, who in turn lured Roger Clemens.

Nobody can deny that the 2004 performance Clemens gave the Astros was a magical ride unlike anything ever seen in Houston.

Even Wagner appreciated the ride Clemens and the Astros went on last October. Wagner appears at ease now in his Phillies uniform despite a turbulent season in which he ripped the manager, general manager and athletic trainers in Philadelphia.

And even Wagner admits the Astros' closet's position is in good hands with his hard-throwing protege Brad Lidge, who turned into one of the most dominant closers in baseball last year, helping Houston to come one win shy of its first World Series appearance.

"I love Brad," Wagner said. "Brad is so much fun to watch. This kid, if he was a jerk, I'd hope he got his tail lit. He's a good kid. He's not arrogant: He's pretty humble. I'm happy for him. I really am. I knew he'd have an opportunity to close, and he took advantage."

Just in case, though, Wagner paused and asked if Lidge is still humble. He was pleased to learn that last October's postseason brilliance hasn't altered Lidge's modest personality.