Quote: "It's the same old stuff night after night. Bad pitching and bad hitting." -- Manager Buddy Bell, whose Tigers have lost seven straight and are 24 games under .500.

It's a fact: Robin Ventura's last homer was July 17 against Cleveland.

Who's hot: Since his recall from Triple-A Syracuse on July 31, the Blue Jays' Jose Cruz Jr. has gone 10-for-28 (.357) with five doubles, two homers and eight RBIs.

Who's not: The Athletics, who have lost 17 of 24, fell 14 games under .500 for the second time this season.

On deck: Tigers manager Buddy Bell said left-hander Justin Thompson, who missed his last start with a stiff back, might be placed on the disabled list if he is unable to pitch Friday.

Pub Date: 8/11/98