SCOUTING REPORT: The A's have the best record in the majors since the All-Star break (39-19), and there are plenty of reasons why. They have three of the top starters in the league (Mark Mulder, Tim Hudson and Barry Zito) and an explosive offense anchored by Jason Giambi, Johnny Damon and Jermaine Dye (who might be the best pennant-race pickup in either league). Last week, Rays manager Hal McRae said he thought the A's might be the team to beat in the postseason. The A's hit, run and play good defense. Their only apparent weakness is the bullpen, which has blown a major-league high 23 saves. But it should be better with the return of ex-Ray Jim Mecir, who missed a month because of minor knee surgery.

THE PAST WEEK: After winning two of three from the Rays at the Trop last weekend, the A's went home and swept three games from Baltimore. Since their 8-18 start, the A's are 75-39.

OAKLAND-TAMPA BAY CONNECTIONS: Oakland pitchers Cory Lidle, Mark Guthrie and Mecir are former Rays. ... Ben Grieve starred for the A's for three seasons before being sent to the Rays. ... Steve Cox was an expansion draft pick from Oakland. ... Jesus Colome was a top Oakland prospect.

ALL-TIME SERIES: The A's lead 25-11, winning 22 of the past 27 games. In Oakland the A's have a 13-5 advantage. The Rays haven't won a series at Network Associates Coliseum.

WHO'S HOT: Giambi, of course. The reigning MVP is hitting .455 (15-for-33) in an 11-game hitting streak with four homers and eight RBI.

WHO'S NOT: Catcher Ramon Hernandez is hitting .182 (8-for-44) over his past 12 games.

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