BASEBALL A.L.(American league)

Anaheim Angels

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Eckstein is proving to be no slouch at the plate

SS David Eckstein has established himself as a legitimate offensive threat this season despite his 5-7, 170-pound frame. Early in the season, pitchers challenged him with fastballs. After Eckstein showed he could hit those, pitchers adjusted by throwing more breaking balls early in the count in an effort to get ahead. When Eckstein handled that as well, they began pitching him in a more conventional way. Eckstein is hitting .297 and has an on-base percentage of .366. He has maintained a level of consistency required to be an everyday starter while moving from his more natural position of second base to shortstop.... RHP Ismael Valdes has fallen into a rut, allowing 16 runs and 33 hits in a 21 2/3-inning span covering four starts. It started with his August 15 start against Detroit when he gave up 11 hits and began to lose confidence. He started trying to throw the ball too hard, resulting in bad mechanics, and finally, a lack of control. Command is vital to Valdes' success. Otherwise, he falls behind in the count, and hitters can sit on his fastball.

SCOUTING REPORT: Scott Spiezio's ability to play different positions made him a valuable utility player but hurt his chances to play everyday. He finally received a chance to play regularly after the All-Star break when he became the everyday first baseman. Spiezio is hitting .331 after the All-Star break. A switch hitter, Spiezio is a little better from the left side. Manager Mike Scioscia says Spiezio, who can hit for some power, has been using the whole field more than in the past. It's unclear what the team will do when MO Vaughn returns next season. Spiezio is a better defensive first baseman than Vaughn, but Vaughn has expressed a strong desire not be a designated hitter. It's likely Spiezio will find himself in a utility role again. He also could become the primary DH.

SEE A DIFFERENT GAME: Eckstein has been hit by a pitch 16 times, one short of the A.L. rookie record set in 1922. It's not as prestigious as setting a record for batting average or home runs, but he says he would take pride in it because it's another way to get on base. He crowds the plate and dares pitchers to throw inside, and he'll get hit so long as he's not risking injury. --Joe Haakenson

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