Trio of Reds Make the All-Star Squad

Brandon Phillips, Joey Votto and Jay Bruce will be headed to Phoenix later this month to represent the Reds and  the National League in the 2011 All-Star game.

Phillips was edged by Milwaukee's Rickie Weeks for the starting job but was chosen by players and manager, Bruce Bochy.

Prince Fielder, also from Milwaukee, will start at first base.  Votto will back him up.  Albert Pujols won the fan vote but his fractured left wrist will keep him out of the game.

Bruce was taken behind starters, Lance Berkman of the St. Louis Cardinals, Matt Kemp from the Los Angeles Dodgers and Ryan Braun from Milwaukee.

"I'm very excited about it," Bruce said.  "I made a call home to family and friends and they are excited about it to. As excited as me, no not really.  It's huge that the players chose me.  The fans did a good job of voting but players see the game a little differently.  They take into account how you play the game and go about your business.  I still have a lot of work to do.  I need to be more consistent as a player but I will build on this.  I'm taking my camera.  The guys who have been there before told me to relax as much as possible.  It's a busy time but I'd rather be there than not.

For Votto it was his second straight trip.  Last year he had to be voted in by fans as the extra players in spite of an outstanding first half performance.  Votto appreciated the support from the fans and his teammates, who wore t-shirts that said," Vote Votto"

'Last year was pretty complimentary.  Getting it from the fans, considering how many fans voted for me, that was pretty special.  The players choosing me is clearly a sign of respect and I appreciate it."

It is possible that Votto could be in the starting lineup since the All-Star game will use the designated hittter rule, even though it will be played in an American League park.

"That would be special but I'm not a DH.  I'm a first baseman.  You don't really care whether or not you get in or what position you play.  I would be kind of awkward or different for me to DH."

"I think this will be just as special as the first one.  The first one is a little bit eye opening but I think they mean the same."

"Jay and Brandon will be with me.  That's probably my favorite part," Votto said.