The closer is officially back.

As expected, Brad Lidge has been activated from the 15-day disabled list. He'll be in uniform Friday and available to pitch against the first-place New York Mets.

To make room for Lidge on the active roster, Antonio Bastardo was optioned back to Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Bastardo became expendable when the Phils got fellow left-handed reliever J.C. Romero back from the DL a week ago.

Bastardo had been used sparingly out of the bullpen of late - he was called on just twice since April 15.

Lidge will likely be slid right back into his role as the Phillies' closer. Ryan Madson, the setup man filling in at closer during Lidge's absence, has blown two of his last three save opportunities, including Wednesday in San Francisco.

Lidge, who led the major leagues with 11 blown saves last year, capped his rehab program with six straight scoreless outings.