N.L. West.(BASEBALL)

ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS

C Johnny Estrada has swung the bat so well in the seventh spot that manager Bob Melvin has been tempted to move him up to No. 2. But Melvin hasn't done so; he figures that because 1B Conor Jackson and RF Shawn Green are getting on base frequently in the fifth and sixth spots, Estrada will get more RBI chances at No. 7. ... Green got hot when he stopped trying to hit for power and began spraying the ball. ... RHP Orlando Hernandez's high strikeout total is largely the result of deception. As he has aged, Hernandez has compensated for lost velocity by changing speeds. FIRST QUARTER GRADES: Offense: A The hitters have worked into deep counts consistently. Pitching: C The bullpen has been taxed by the starters, who haven't lasted long consistently. Defense: A The team ranks among the league leaders in double plays.--Steve Gilbert

COLORADO ROCKIES

If C Ell Marrero is healthy--a stomach ailment and a strained rib cage muscle have interrupted his season--he will get playing time until Yorvit Torrealba (shoulder) returns. Danny Ardoin and Miguel Ojeda, who are playing in Torrealba's absence, have scuffled at the plate. ... Second base remains a problem area. Luis Gonzalez has struggled at the plate, Jamey Carroll is best suited as a utility player, and Jason Smith has slumped badly. Gonzalez remains the best option. FIRST QUARTER GRADES: Offense: C The Rockies have hit for power and have been competitive against good pitching on the road, but they have been weak at Coors Field. Pitching: A- The bullpen was expected to be the club's strength, and it bas delivered. The rotation has exceeded expectations with some long starts. Defense: B+ RF Brad Hawpe and CF Cory Sullivan have been among the best defenders at their positions.--Thomas Harding

LOS ANGELES DODGERS

SS Cesar Izturis (elbow) is headed for a rehab assignment. But where will he play when he returns? Rafael Furcal is at short, and Izturis has rejected the suggestion of moving to the outfield. He also isn't thrilled with the idea of moving to third base until Bill Mueller recovers from knee surgery. ... A similar quandary is in store for when C Dioner Navarro returns from a forearm bruise. Russell Martin, as expected, has played well. Keeping both ...