Quote: "Everything used to be hard, hard, hard. Now, they can't look one way. It's been a weapon since I started throwing it, and will continue to be a weapon for me."

-- The Braves' John Smoltz (5-0) on his off-speed pitch. It's a fact: Atlanta's bullpen has a combined annual salary of $3.1 million, less than half that of starter Tom Glavine ($7 million).

Who's hot: Astros closer Billy Wagner, who has 10 saves in 10 chances, has struck out 24 batters in 11 1/3 innings.

Who's not: The Marlins are 3-20 against right-handers, 1-8 in day games, 0-5 in one-run games, 0-4 in two-run games and 0-1 in extra innings.

On deck: Reliever Manny Aybar will likely take Donovan Osborne's place on the Cardinals' mound Tuesday if Osborne, who left last night's game after four innings, is still hurting.

Pub Date: 5/07/99