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N.L. East

Sporting News, The, April 21, 2006

ATLANTA BRAVES

RF Jeff Francoeur's slow start is a result of an overaggressive approach. He saw an average of less than three pitches per plate appearance during the first four games.... RHP Ken Ray's above-average fastball and top-notch changeup might allow him to end his days as a minor league journeyman. His changeup is likely to be very effective against lefthanders. Before this season, Ray hadn't pitched in the majors since 1999. SCOUTING REPORT: RHP John Smoltz relies heavily on his grip to throw his patented slider. He also recently perfected his changeup. When he pitches in cold weather, Smoltz says the ball races off his thumb as if it were sliding on ice. Be is at his best in warm weather, when he can better control his pitches.--Mark Bowman

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FLORIDA MARLINS

1B Mike Jacobs, who has lefthanded power, is being given every chance to face lefthanded pitchers. The only difference is he bats fifth against lefthanders and cleanup against righthanders.... Reggie Abercrombie and Eric Reed are platooning in center field. Reed, who plays against righthanders, has a bit more speed but lacks the power of Abercrombie, a raw talent who must improve his plate discipline. SCOUTING REPORT: RHP Franklyn Berman, claimed off waivers from Detroit, has a power arm but questionable control. He probably will get opportunities as a setup man because of his 96-mph fastball and baffling splitter. German has closer potential if be sharpens his command. He needs consistent work.--Joe Frisaro

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES

It appears Abraham Nunez will play third base when David Bell, who struggles against righthanders, isn't in the lineup. Alex Gonzalez will rotate around the infield and serve as a main pinch hitter.... RHP Tom Gordon isn't likely to see many four-out saves in April; manager Charlie Manuel hopes to keep him fresh. Gordon, 38, appeared in 79 games for the Yankees in 2005. SCOUTING REPORT: RHP Gavin Floyd is confident after being emboldened by a brilliant spring. He has a big bending curveball, and his fastball has impressive movement. Floyd struggled with the mental approach last season, so he will have to show he can pitch through tough situations before he can be great. His stuff is top notch.--Ken Mandel

NEW YORK METS

The outfield play--particularly the ability to hit the relay man--has been the team's biggest on-field improvement since the start of last season. Cliff Floyd is the best example; he used to be considered a liability in the field, but he has gained a reputation for being an aggressive outfielder with an accurate arm.... If the Mets aren't able to give OF Victor Diaz at-bats on a consistent basis, they probably will add a 12th pitcher and send Diaz to the minor leagues. SCOUTING REPORT: 2B Anderson Hernandez, a converted shortstop, has made some brilliant plays and looked comfortable and confident at his new position. There are no questions about his range, glove, arm or instincts, but he must prove he can hit to keep the starting job.--Marty Noble

WASHINGTON NATIONALS

Manager Frank Robinson might lift LF Alfonso Soriano for defense late in games, though he is concerned that would weaken his bench. That's because Soriano's likely replacement, OF Marion Byrd, wouldn't be available in earlier innings. Robinson also could use Damian Jackson as a defensive replacement for Soriano. ... RHP Tony Armas says he no longer is thinking about his oft-injured fight shoulder. The shoulder has forced Armas to the D.L. each of the past three seasons. SCOUTING REPORT: RHP Ryan Drese, who is replacing RHP Pedro Astacio (forearm) in the rotation, tries to induce ground balls with a heavy sinker. But Drese is a question mark; he's coming off a shoulder problem that slowed him this spring.--Bill Ladson

N.L. East

Sporting News, The, April 21, 2006

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