The Phillies traded Lou Marson, Carlos Carrasco, Jason Donald, and Jason Knapp to the Indians for Cliff Lee and Ben Francisco. What do you think of this deal?

At the symbolic half-way point of the 2009 season (7/13), the Phils were in first place by a few games. Inconsistency and pitching problems have prevented this team from reaching its full potential. However, they showed positive signs with 9-1 homestand heading into the All-Star break. Does this indicate a breakaway, or should fans expect more inconsistency or worse? Vote and discuss.

The Phils organization will be well-represented at the All-Star game in St. Louis. Two players were voted starters (Utley, Ibanez), two selected as reserves (Howard, Werth), one selected in Final Man balloting (Victorino), plus the manager serves by right of the team's pennant the year before. This is their most players on an All-Star squad since 1995, tying a franchise record. Unfortunately, Phillies rarely make an impact in the Mid-season Classic. The only MVP they had was outfielder Johnny Callison in 1964. This year's Phils have plenty of candidates to break that drought. Which one is most likely to shine? Vote and discuss.

Over the past three weeks, the Phils have stumbled badly. After a 1-8 homestand, followed by 3-6 road trip, they have fallen into a first-place tie with the Florida Marlins. The N.Y. Mets and Atlanta Braves sit just one and two games back, respectively, depsite mediocre play. The Fightins' need change in a few key areas, but which would do the most to turn things around? Vote and discuss.

Charlie Manuel decided to bench his shortstop for a few games due to poor performance and a distracted mental state. The manager has tried this move in the past with other slumping Phillies, usually to good effect as players rebound after returning to a starting role. Will this attempt at motivation and head-clearing help in Rollins' case? Vote and discuss.