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National League roundup

Compiled from Times wires

© St. Petersburg Times, published March 25, 2001

Pirates' Benson out for first three weeks

BRADENTON -- Kris Benson, the Pirates' top starter, will miss the first three weeks of the season with a strained elbow ligament. Benson, the third starter on the injured list, won't throw for at least two weeks.

The Pirates already were without Jason Schmidt, their opening-day pitcher last year, and Francisco Cordova, their opening-day starter in 1999. Cordova could miss the entire season with a reinjured elbow.

Two relievers are hurting, too. Jose Silva sprained an ankle at the minor-league camp Friday, and Rich Loiselle left Friday night's game after two pitches.

BREWERS: Fans got a sneak preview of the new $400-million Miller Park. Kieth and Julie Eales brought their friends, family and camera gear about four hours after getting married. "We had thought of it ever since we heard the open house was going to be on our wedding day," Julie Eales said. Her bridesmaids, dressed in sleeveless gowns, shivered as they posed for pictures near a dugout. The wind chill was 4 degrees. Nachos cost $6, and beer is $4.25 to $5. "I think they should let McDonald's in here so regular people could afford to eat something," said Paul Whalen, 75. Another open house will be today, with weekend attendance of about 100,000 expected.

CARDINALS: Manager Tony La Russa was ejected for arguing a call on the bases.

D'BACKS: Second baseman Jay Bell drove in four runs and has nine hits in his past 15 at-bats, with two doubles and three homers.

DODGERS: Kevin Brown's opening-day start could be in jeopardy after an MRI of his injured right Achilles' showed a strain rather than the tendinitis that was diagnosed Friday.

GIANTS: Mark Gardner, the projected fifth starter, allowed 10 hits and eight runs (five earned) in three innings and has an 8.66 ERA.

MARLINS: Chuck Smith, projected as the No. 3 starter, hurt his throwing shoulder running the bases and was taken for tests. Doctors said it might be a sprain. "It's safe to say I won't use Chuck Smith as a pinch-runner this season," manager John Boles said.

METS: Al Leiter shut out the Cardinals for 6 2/3 innings and has not allowed a run in 15 2/3 innings in four starts.

REDS: Shortstop Barry Larkin, who has not played since March 10 because of a groin strain, is expected to play today in Sarasota against Boston.

ROCKIES: Larry Walker, who announced he would defer $18-million over three seasons, homered for the second straight day.

PADRES: Rickey Henderson struck out and grounded out in his spring debut.

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