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Phils eager to meet the Mets

Three and a half hours before Wednesday's loss to Washington, Jimmy Rollins sat in front of his locker, his eyes locked on a television showing the New York Mets playing the Florida Marlins.

Three and a half hours before Wednesday's loss to Washington, Jimmy Rollins sat in front of his locker, his eyes locked on a television showing the New York Mets playing the Florida Marlins.

When it was mentioned to Rollins that Mets starter Johan Santana had again been the victim of paltry run support, the shortstop shrugged and mumbled, "Good for us."

The Phillies play the division-rival Mets tonight for the first time this season, and while players maintain that the rivalry between the teams is media-generated, many look forward to testing themselves against an important competitor.

The team is 7-4 against National League East opponents Washington, Florida, and Atlanta, but has yet to play the team it nudged out of a playoff spot in 2007 and 2008.

"We've played everybody except the Mets," said manager Charlie Manuel. "I'm sure this weekend is going to be really exciting, like always."

Added Matt Stairs: "You've always got that feeling [of intensity]. Some people make comments from both sides, and it just carries over."