[AZTarHeel]

Andrew Zarzour's parents definitely didn't regret missing their yearly All-Star party. The couple thoroughly enjoyed their trip to Detroit and were pleased to watch their son pitch the fifth inning for the National League. Big Z gave up one hit to Chipper Jones (Yankees) and then retired Gary Sheffield (Yankees), Marcus Giles (Royals) and Grady Sizemore (Red Sox) to end the frame. A nice all-star showing.

The NL All-Stars ended up losing the game 9-6. Boston's Nomar Garciaparra earned MVP honors after bashing two homers and finishing 3-for-4 with four RBIs. Josh Hamilton went 1-for-1 with an RBI in a reserve role.

As Zarzour and his parents enjoyed one last meal together in the Motor City, they talked with much excitement over the pennant race ahead of the Phillies in the closing months of the season. The Phils trailed the Braves in the NL East but were still within striking distance. They were right there in the mix for a wild card berth if that pursuit fell short...