N.L. (Baseball).

Arizona Diamondbacks

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82-47 1st in West

STREAK FREE: After missing seven games because of irritated cartilage in his rib cage, LF Luis Gonzalez returned last Thursday, but it is unlikely that he will run off another streak of 446 consecutive games. A few times during that streak, manager Bob Brenly wanted to rest Gonzalez but allowed him to pinch hit or enter the game on defense to keep the streak alive. Both Gonzalez and Brenly admit that practice need not continue.... Because Craig Counsell (neck) remains out, the team decided it needed another reserve infielder and recalled Alex Cintron from Class AAA Tucson. IF Jay Bell has played only one inning of middle infield (at second base) since coming off the D.L. July 19.

SEE A DIFFERENT GAME: The team's recent hot stretch coincided with SS Tony Womack's offensive breakthrough. Since July 22, he has batted nearly .360. Womack adjusted his stance in May, and he says his outburst is the result of becoming comfortable with that change. He has been bunting for hits more and keeping the ball out of the air for the most part.

PROBABLE CALL-UPS: C Rod Barajas, sent down when the team recalled Cintron, is expected to return September 1. Barajas had a .295 average since the All-Star break. Even if he returns after August 31, he could be put on the playoff roster because the team will be allowed to replace injured OF Danny Bautista. No other call-ups figure to get big playing time. 1B Lyle Overbay, who could replace Mark Grace next season, should get a look. Overbay has been among the Pacific Coast League's top hitters all season. RHP Bret Prinz has pitched well since being sent down in June with a 12.00 ERA; he should be recalled. James Mouton and Mark Little are candidates to boost the team's outfield depth.--Ed Price

AUGUST GRADES