Ibanez early favorite for All Star Game.

After starting sixth in all star votes, Phillies fans stepped up the in park and online voting to jump Raul Ibanez all the way to second place behind Ryan Braun. The usuals are occupying their places in voting with Utley, Howard, and Rollins all within the top 3. Third baseman Pedro Feliz is quietly putting together an All Star quality season. He currently is 5th in the voting.

The real story is Ibanez. Ibanez came to the Phillies this past offseason to replace Pat (the Bat, the Babe, Man or Machine, etc.) Burrell. Most fans were skeptical of what Ibanez could bring to the team. He would be the third lefty in the heart of the order. He was also 6 years OLDER than Burrell. So far, I would definitely say the Ibanez was well worth the draft pick we gave up. He is out homering a DLed Burrell 17:1. So when you watch or listen to a Phils game, just know we are not "Booing" Ibanez. We are affectionately chanting, "Rauuuuuuuuul".