Quote: "I wasn't batting eighth because of my offensive ability. We just wanted to get another leadoff man up there before [Mark] McGwire batted. Every at-bat is an adventure for me." -- Cardinals pitcher Todd Stottlemyre after batting eighth in Thursday night's loss to the Astros.

It's a fact: Atlanta's 60-30 record is two games better than the franchise's previous best after 90 games.

Who's hot: The Astros' Shane Reynolds has won four straight starts, posting a 2.33 ERA during his run, which began June 23.

Who's not: The Pirates' Francisco Cordova (6-8) has lost five straight decisions and failed to win in seven starts since May 31.

On deck: The Braves' Greg Maddux, who has won 10 consecutive decisions, including two straight shutouts, faces Marlins rookie Ryan Dempster tonight in Florida.

Pub Date: 7/11/98