Atlanta lost the final game of its series at New York Sunday but the team is getting out of the Big Apple in pretty decent shape. The Braves have extended their lead over the Mets to four games in the N.L. East standings as they break for the next three days for the All-Star game.
Derek Lowe talks about being in first at the All-Star Break
The Phillies swept the Reds over the weekend so they are 4 ½ games behind the Braves in the standings. Florida is ten back and the Nationals are 13 ½ back.
Braves outfielder Jason Heyward will NOT be playing in the All-Star game Tuesday. He wants to rest his injured hand. That opened up a spot that N.L. skipper Charlie Manuel wanted to give to Braves closer Billy Wagner. However, Wagner decided to turn down the spot to help his injured ankle recover. He tweaked the ankle on June 17th against the Rays.
Despite not attending, Wagner will get credit for making his 7th All-Star game. He plans to retire at the end of this season.
