Phillies, Ryan Madson Reportedly Getting Close on New Deal?

Ryan Madson is arguably the most accomplished relief pitcher in Phillies history.  In a few years, it should be beyond any argument.

Jon Heyman from SI.com, hot on the heels of news from Jayson Stark and Ken Rosenthal, reports that the Phillies and free agent relief pitcher Ryan Madson are getting close on a new contract that would presumably keep Madson in red pinstripes for at least a few more years.  (h/t NBC Philadelphia)

Nothing is finalized, and we've all seen "close" deals fall apart before, but it's looking more and more like Mad Dog will be closing out his peak seasons as a member of the Philadelphia Phillies.

As always, the devil is in the details on whether it's a good deal or not. I'm optimistic that something will get done for three years at around $10 million AAV, and even if that's an overpay, it's nice to have some certainty.  Phillies General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. has made it clear from the beginning that he wants a veteran closer.  He's never had to sign or trade for a closer before -- Brad Lidge's contract that expired at the end of 2011 is a remnant of the Pat Gillick regime -- but it's very clear that Amaro isn't afraid to spend money, sometimes more than necessary.  Of all the most likely alternatives, this feels like the least offensive one.

That, and it'd make it so I don't have to root for Jonathan Papelbon.