N.L. East.(BASEBALL)

ATLANTA BRAVES

The numerous leg injuries 3B Chipper Jones has suffered over the past three seasons have zapped much of his power. His inconsistency from both sides of the plate has greatly hindered the offense and raised questions about his future. He has looked much older than 34, and his reduced mobility makes him a liability at third.... RHP Jorge Sosa has been moved to a relief role to help the horrendous bullpen. His electric arm gives him the potential to be a successful closer or serve as a reliable setup man for RHP Ken Ray. Sosa has struggled against lefthanded hitters, but his slide step helps keep baserunners from advancing into scoring position. HOT PROSPECT: RHP Kevin Barry is the latest pitcher summoned to Atlanta to fill a relief role. He had a stellar May as a starter at Class AAA but hasn't been as sharp recently. He has shown better control this year while continuing to pile up strikeouts.--Mark Bowman

FLORIDA MARLINS

Mindful of not overworking his young pitchers, manager Joe Girardi tries to avoid using his rookie relievers on more than two consecutive days. However, veteran closer Joe Borowski is available to pitch three days in a row. He has settled in as a one-inning guy.... Newly recalled RHP Jeff Fulchino gives the team a long-relief option after having started for Class AAA Albuquerque.... Rookie SS Hanley Ramirez continues to bat leadoff, even though he hit .165 in his first 20 games in June. He has immense potential, but his swing hasn't been right since he strained his left shoulder while striking out in Atlanta in mid-May. HOT PROSPECT: RHP Anibal Sanchez is showing why he is so highly regarded. He has regained arm strength after experiencing shoulder tightness in spring training, and he has an excellent strikeouts-to-walk ratio at Class AA.--Joe Frisaro

NEW YORK METS

Rookie OF Lastings Milledge likely will return to Class AAA Norfolk when LF Cliff Floyd (ankle) returns from the D.L., but the club believes Milledge can be an asset later in the season. How Milledge would fit on the roster, barring another injury, is unclear.... RHP Duaner Sanchez (pinched nerve in neck) likely will be available to pitch this week. He left a game last ...