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COPYRIGHT 2004 Sporting News Publishing Co.
ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS LHP Randy Johnson will start his workouts earlier this offseason. He has been fresher this year, the result of not throwing too many pitches when he was hurt in 2003 and not overextending himself in games this year.... Rookie 3B Chad Tracy's error total is higher than expected. Most of his mistakes have been on throws, and better footwork could help. Strength and conditioning coach Dave Page put together an offseason program for Tracy that borrows from the one Page used with former D-back Matt Williams, who had great footwork at third. SCOUTING REPORT: OF Luis Terrero is a five-tool player but must harness his skills. He tries to take the extra base whenever possible (and sometimes when it's not) and runs all-out, even on routine grounders. His arm is extremely powerful but erratic.--Steve Gilbert
ATLANTA BRAVES Most of 1B Adam LaRoche's power has been to right field. But his recent hot hitting was the result of keeping his weight back and focusing on driving the ball to left.... Statistically, the bullpen looks strong. But LHP Tom Martin is unreliable, and the lack of a steady lefthanded specialist could be a devastating flaw in the postseason. SCOUTING REPORT: RHP Paul Byrd is long past feeling the effects of 2003 elbow surgery--that's evident in his success, endurance and pitch selection. In his first September start, he threw his sinker, which he hadn't used since 1992 because it caused injuries. The pitch breaks away from lefthanders, who have hurt Byrd this season. His fastball, slider and changeup have been tough on righthanders.--Mark Bowman
CHICAGO CUBS 1B Derrek Lee has been bothered by a sore wrist, but that hasn't kept him out of the lineup or hurt his production. He has not missed a start since May 15 and will set career highs in doubles, home runs and RBIs.... RHP Matt Clement (neck, back) also has been ailing. But extra rest and treatment should enable him to make all of his remaining starts. SCOUTING REPORT: SS Neifi Perez has been a bigger contributor than expected because of injuries to SS Nomar Garciaparra (groin) and IF Ramon Martinez (groin). Perez has hit well--and with some surprising pop--and played good defense. Manager Dusty Baker likes the energy Perez brings to the team. Perez has forged a friendship with RF Sammy Sosa,...
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