N.L. East.(BASEBALL)

ATLANTA BRAVES

It hasn't taken long for the Braves to feel the effects of 1B Julio Franco's offseason departure. The club began the week 5-11 in 1-run games, and the primary reason was a weak bench. IF Wilson Betemit is the only bench player who poses a serious threat in late-inning pinch-hit situations.... SS Edgar Renteria, who entered the week with a 22-game hitting streak, is producing even though 28 Marcus Giles, who bats ahead of Renteria, is having trouble getting on base as the leadoff hitter. APRIL SURPRISE: RF Jeff Francoeur has struggled mightily to display any plate discipline in his second season. Some believed Francoeur's athleticism would allow him to thrive despite his free-swinging ways, but he needs to display some patience and not chase pitches, especially in hitters counts.--Mark Bowman

FLORIDA MARLINS

LHP Jason Vargas was sent to the bullpen and was replaced in the rotation by RHP Josh Johnson. Vargas has been falling behind too often and leaving too many pitches high. At least the bullpen now has a lefthander; Vargas has been somewhat successful against lefties. ... After spending most of spring training and a few April games behind the plate, Josh Willingham is a full-time left fielder. The move will keep him fresher and allow him to get 600 at-bats. The team needs his power bat in the cleanup spot to protect 3B Miguel Cabrera. APRIL SURPRISE: 2B Dan Uggla is proving he belongs in the majors. He has been a good table-setter in the No. 2 spot and has shown power. Uggla, who has been compared to Braves 2B Marcus Giles, still must improve his defense but is making the routine plays.--Joe Frisaro

NEW YORK METS

RHP Victor Zambrano (elbow) is lost for the season, and the bottom of the team's rotation is in shambles. The team especially must settle the Nos. 4 and 5 spots after the rest days taper off. The team could use RHPs Brian Bannister (hamstring) and John Maine (finger) when they return from the D.L. More ...