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By MARC TOPKIN
© St. Petersburg Times, published July 12, 2001
7:05 tonight, 7:05 p.m. Friday, 1:35 p.m. Saturday
SCOUTING REPORT: As usual, there is more talk about where the franchise might be headed than how the season is going. The Expos feature several talented young players, led by do-it-all outfielder Vladimir Guerrero, but have not been able to sustain any streaks. Jose Vidro, Ugueth Urbina and Tony Armas are among their top players. Much like the Rays, though, they struggle with a dysfunctional offense that ranks near the bottom of the league in homers, on-base percentage and runs and an abused pitching staff that may be led in wins by reliever Graeme Lloyd. Felipe Alou was fired as manager after a 21-32 start, and Jeff Torborg has done only slightly better with a 16-19 mark. The Expos are the only team that draws fewer fans than the Rays.
THE PAST WEEK: The Expos were on something of a roll, having won six of seven before losing the last two games before the break to Toronto. Still, they've won 10 of 16, which is as hot as they've been.
TAMPA BAY CONNECTIONS: First-base coach Ozzie Guillen, who was hired by Torborg, played for the Rays last season and was released at the end of spring training. ... Rookie right-hander Troy Mattes, who starts tonight, is a product of Sarasota's Riverview High.
ALL-TIME SERIES: The teams have played fairly evenly during their annual three-game series. The Expos have a 5-4 edge and won two of three during the Rays' previous visit to the Big O.
WHO'S HOT: Guerrero has been on a tear, going 19-for-40 during a 10-game hitting streak.
WHO'S NOT: Shortstop Orlando Cabrera, a strong defensive player, is in a 5-for-25 slump.