We know a few things for sure regarding the Phillies' chances to make the All-Star game—Raul and Chase will both start (theoretically—Raul is still on the mend). Jimmy Rollins and Ryan Howard are currently second at their positions, and Shane Vic is 5th in outfield voting. And, because the Phils won the World Series, the man making the decisions on reserves is Uncle Charlie Manuel. It'll be interesting to see who he brings to St. Louis from his own club. I think it's safe to say we won't see any Phils pitching this year though. The selection show will air at 1PM on TBS.

Then it's back to the Bank for the finale of the Phillies-Mets series, with the Phils looking to erase getting swept by the Braves by returning the favor to the Bad News Mets. However, as luck would have it, Johan Santana will be on the mound, with Joe Blanton countering for the Phillies.

Skippack 4th of July Parade, originally uploaded by dwmatty19.

We won't dig too deeply into Johan's career stats versus the Phillies. They're pretty great. But, he's been human lately, including a 5 ER performance in his last outing (vs. Brewers). Overall, his June was terrible, with his ERA rising by over a run. He was bombed by both the Yankees (NINE earned) and Phils (four homers). And, even if he shakes off his lousy June to start July hot, will the Mets give him any run support?

Mostly that'll depend on which Joe Blanton shows up. The Phillies haven't won a Blanton start since June 1, but overall, he hasn't been that bad, allowing more than three earned runs only once, even that was only a four-run outing. More often than not, Joey B. will need some runs, but he can usually keep the game in reach.

Does Jimmy Rollins still have wings leftover from yesterday? What better way to show you're back then to hang a few hits on Johan and lead the way against the Mets for the sweep...