N.L. east

Sporting News, The, July 1, 2005

ATLANTA BRAVES

IF Wilson Betemit, 24, appears to have grown into the potential star many believed he could be early in his minor league career. He has shown power from both sides of the plate, and his defense is strong enough that the Braves could choose to play him in place of struggling SS Rafael Furcal, who has failed this season as the team's leadoff hitter. ... RHP Tim Hudson is on the D.L. for a second consecutive year with a left oblique injury. He says the discomfort is located under his rib and not near his hip, where he was hurting last year. The Braves hope the different location is a sign this won't be a recurring injury. POWER TOOL: CF Andruw Jones' commitment to playing every day might have cost him a half-step over the years, but he's still one of the best defensive outfielders of all time. His instincts are unmatched, and his arm has always been strong and accurate, another reason the Atlanta pitching staff regularly has the league's best ERA.--Mark Bowman

FLORIDA MARLINS

RHP Josh Beckett's blister problems have resurfaced on his right middle finger. That's the finger Beckett uses to apply a great deal of pressure on the seams when throwing his breaking ball. The key for him to battle through the injury will be building up and retaining a callus. ... RHP Nate Bump was recalled when Beckett was placed on the D.L. Bump worked briefly on a cutter and slider in the minors but isn't ready to use either pitch in games. ... SS Alex Gonzalez has been showing more discipline at the plate. He hasn't been chasing outside pitches as often, and instead of trying to pull everything, Gonzalez, a righthanded hitter, is taking pitches to fight field. POWER TOOL: 2B Luis Castillo's speed is a huge asset on defense, giving him the range to reach balls many other second basemen can't get. The combination of his explosive first step and strong arm has helped him win two consecutive Gold Gloves.--Joe Frisaro

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES

The season-ending injury to LHP Randy Wolf creates an opportunity for rookie RHP Robinson Tejeda, and he is making the most of it. He reaches the mid-90s with his fastball and complements it with a biting slider and curve. He induces plenty of ground balls, a must working in Citizens Bank Park. In his first 20 2/3 innings, Tejeda allowed only 10 hits but walked 17. If he continues to be effective and cuts down on walks, the need to acquire another starter will lessen. ... CF Kenny Lotion, 37, is showing that he still can play. He has been on an extended hot streak, hitting for average, stealing bases and legging out triples. POWER TOOL: SS Jimmy Rollins is a big reason the Phillies' routinely have one of the best infield defenses in the league. His range is especially impressive, as he regularly makes plays deep in the hole or knocks down balls other shortstops never would reach. He only showcases his strong arm when the need arises, preferring the steady accurate approach.--Ken Mandel

NEW YORK METS

1B Doug Mientkiewicz's continued struggles on offense forced the club to look for help, but calling up Brian Daubach from Class AAA can't be viewed as a long-term solution. Look for the team to continue searching for someone who can provide more production at that position. ... Catcher is another position where the team lacks a long-term solution. Mike Piazza no longer is a feared hitter and is in the last year of his contract. Acquiring a starting catcher, which could be difficult and expensive, will be the top priority next off-season. POWER TOOL: The Mets' most consistent tool is SS Jose Reyes' speed. He can go hitless and still cause problems for opponents. By merely reaching base on a forceout, Reyes can get into scoring position within a few pitches. He also is a dangerous bunter because of his speed. On defense, Reyes will get to some popups beyond the foul line because of his quickness.--Marty Noble

WASHINGTON NATIONALS

RHP T.J. Tucker has been hit hard recently. Tucker and manager Frank Robinson have different opinions of what's wrong with the reliever. Robinson believes Tucker has not been given enough work; Tucker says his leg kick is too high and his stride is too long. ... OF Brad Wilkerson has put soft tape around the knob of his bat in hopes that it will alleviate pain in his right forearm. Wilkerson has been playing with the injury for more than a month. It has affected his hitting mechanics, and his batting average has plummeted from over 300 to .278 entering the week. POWER TOOL: Wilkerson is the best defensive player on the team. His presence gives Robinson plenty of options. If RF Jose Guillen, LF Ryan Church or 18 Nick Johnson gets hurt, Wilkerson can play any of their positions with skill. He has made it known over the years that he would like to get comfortable at one position, but that will not happen as long as Robinson is manager.--Bill Ladson