Quote: "It didn't feel good. It's a fair trade for the win."

-- Expos pitcher Mike Thurman, who was hit by a pitch in the third inning but got the victory yesterday against the Cubs.

It's a fact: The Mets, who have the best record in the NL, have their biggest lead after the All-Star break -- 1 1/2 games -- since winning the NL East by 15 games in 1988.

Who's hot: Rockies' Pedro Astacio has five complete games, trailing only Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling for the NL lead.

Who's not: Even with a win last night, the Braves have lost nine of their past 13 road games.

On deck: Diamondbacks ace Randy Johnson, the NL Pitcher of the Month for July despite a 2-3 record, starts against the surprising Phillies.

Pub Date: 8/06/99