Brad Lidge, the former Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher who secured the 2008 World Series title, has transitioned into a career as an archaeologist.
From the 2008 World Series Mound to Italian Excavation Sites
Lidge’s professional baseball career reached its peak in 2008 when he recorded the final out of the World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays. This victory ended a 28-year championship drought for the Philadelphia Phillies. Lidge remained with the Phillies through 2011 and retired from Major League Baseball in 2013.
Since stepping away from the mound, Lidge has pivoted toward academia. According to reports, he earned a master’s degree in Roman archaeology in 2017.
High School Teacher Sparked Lidge's Interest in History
Lidge’s interest in history predates his professional athletic career. In an interview, Lidge credited his world history teacher at Cherry Creek High School in Colorado, Eric Coble, for shifting his perspective on the subject. He noted that while he initially found the material dry, he later developed a curiosity about the origins of ancient religions and cultural development.
This academic pursuit continued even while Lidge was active in the major leagues.
Reflections on Career Transitions
Discussing his shift from professional sports to archaeology, Lidge acknowledged that many athletes choose to remain in baseball as coaches or organizational leaders. However, he said people should pursue personal passions outside of the sport.
If you have something that you really want to do, and you have the ability to do it, then you should try, so you don’t have any regrets,
Lidge stated. He expressed that he feels fortunate to be able to dedicate his time to archaeology as he approaches his 50th birthday, noting the excitement of potential discovery in field work. Regardless of whether it’s a small artifact or a large ruin, it has the potential to redefine how people view the Etruscans or a certain culture,
he said.
Lidge Researches Ancient Etruscan Symbols in Italy
Lidge’s research centers on the interpretation of ancient Etruscan symbols. His work requires travel to Italy, where he participates in active archaeological digs. He described the environment of the field site as a space where findings—however rare—can alter the current understanding of ancient civilizations. While he acknowledged that significant discoveries are not an everyday occurrence, the possibility of uncovering historically meaningful items remains a primary motivation for his work in the field.
What Are Brad Lidge's Research and Career Goals?
What is the primary focus of Brad Lidge’s doctoral research?
Is Lidge still involved in professional baseball?
No, Lidge retired from Major League Baseball in 2013 and has since transitioned into a career in archaeology and academic research.
Where does Lidge conduct his archaeological field work?
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