N.L. reports.(Baseball)

ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS

The team finished 10th in the N.L. in runs, leading to the reassignment of hitting coach Dwayne Murphy. In addition, first base coach Robin Yount was moved to the bench, where his ability to dissect a game will be better utilized. OFFSEASON ASSIGNMENT: LF Luis Gonzalez will work on strengthening his right elbow, which has a ligament sprain. If he can regain strength, no surgery will be needed.--Steve Gilbert

ATLANTA BRAVES

If RHP John Smoltz gets his wish and returns to the rotation, RHP Jaret Wright could be the closer. Wright has an impressive fastball, but his endurance and durability are concerns. OFFSEASON ASSIGNMENT: SS Rafael Furcal has a powerful arm, but it isn't accurate. He also allows balls to get into his body instead of attacking them. Furcal often has played second base during winter ball, but this offseason, he needs to address his inconsistencies at shortstop.--Mark Bowman

CHICAGO CUBS

With Bobby Hill gone to Pittsburgh, a second baseman may be needed; Mark Grudzielanek started this year, but he may not return. OFFSEASON ASSIGNMENT:, 1B Hee Seop Choi needs to deal better with the inside pitch, and that will be his focus in winter ball. Roving hitting instructor Richie Zisk has tried to get Choi to use his body more, and manager Dusty Baker gave Choi a book on hitting to study.--Carrie Muskat

CINCINNATI REDS