News and Notes

Jayson Stark gives the nod to the Phillies in the Wild Card race. Why? Well, experience, for one.

Placido Polanco missed his 16th straight game last night, but is expected to be in the starting lineup at 3B tonight. The pain has gone away, and he was able to run full-speed yesterday.

David Bell continues to work out -- without pain -- and still hopes to return by the end of the season. Larry Bowa isn't as confident as his third baseman, so we will continue to play this one day-by-day.

P Terry Adams, who has been out since Thursday night, just after he returned from the DL, had an MRI yesterday on his throwing elbow. The results showed loose bodies in the elbow, and surgery was recommended. A procedure would likely end his season, but he and his agent are seeking a second opinion.