CINCINNATI _ Given the most returns in the fan balloting, it was apparent that St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols and catcher Yadier Molina were going to be named starters today for the National League All-Star team. For reliever Ryan Franklin, despite his 20 saves in 21 opportunities, the path was not so clear.

Franklin, who was a pick of National League manager Charlie Manuel, said he had “good dreams and bad dreams” the night before the selections were announced for the All-Star Game on July 14 in St. Louis.

“I did a lot of tossing and turning,” said Franklin. “A few good dreams and a few bad dreams.”

The bad ones, he said, involved “not making it.”

At 36 and a full-time closer for the first tine, Franklin will realize his All-Star dream for the first time, “I’m glad it happened for him,” said Molina. “He’s been working hard the last two years.”

For Molina, it also is a first-time selection. “It’s one of the best moments,” he said. “It’s kind of special.”:

Normally, in the All-Star Game, the starting catcher warms up the starting pitcher in the bullpen and does not get the enjoyment of standing on the foul line when his name is introduced. Molina does not want to miss that.

“We’ll have to wait to see who’s pitching,” Molina said. “If I feel like I know the guy, then I’ll be on the line.”

When it was suggested that San Fransicso Giants Cy Young Award winner Tim Lincecum is likely to be the National League starter _ he will be on proper rest that day _ Molina said, “I know that guy.”

Pujols, whose 5,397,374 votes led everyone in both leagues, has been named to the All-Star team for the eighth time.

“It’s always great to be there, representing the organization,” he said. “Last year was a great feeling in New York, looking at the standing ovation they gave for (Derek) Jeter and A-Rod (Alex Rodriguez). I think when they call our three names (in St. Louis), it’s going to be the same thing.

Manager Tony La Russa said the other players gave the Cardinals All-Stars a standing ovation in the clubhouse before the game here today.