At 48-41, the Philadelphia Phillies continue to hold onto the lead in the National League East.

After going on a serious run several weeks ago to jump the Florida Marlins for first place in the division, the Phillies offense has slumped in the past couple of weeks.

The result has been the team’s inability to put any significant distance between themselves and the rest of the contenders in the division.

There are rumors floating around that the Phillies are set to make a significant offer for Seattle Mariners ace Erik Bedard, which would serve as a major upgrade for their starting rotation.

The team has been helped out by fantastic first half performances from second baseman Chase Utley, outfielder Pat Burrell and closer Brad Lidge.