Quote: "I always thought Cal [Ripken] should have the right to end the streak on his own terms. I'm glad that happened." -- Phillies manager Terry Francona, who appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated with Ripken in a 1982 issue featuring top rookies.

It's a fact: Since joining the Cardinals on July 31, 1997, Mark McGwire has 89 homers, 180 RBIs and 200 walks.

Who's hot: The Astros lead the NL with 855 runs and 799 RBIs, and their .280 team batting average is second to the Rockies' .291.

Who's not: The Pirates' public relations department researched scores as far back as the 1930s without finding another time besides Sunday when the Pirates and Steelers were shut out in the same day.

On deck: The Astros' pitching staff will have a say in who wins the home run race. Houston visits St. Louis and McGwire for two games, then plays host to the Cubs and Sammy Sosa for the season's last three games.

Pub Date: 9/22/98