AL hot corner

Quote: "I'm not disappointed, because I'd been thinking of hanging it up, anyway. I'd rather go out on a more positive note than getting released." - Ken Hill, released by the Angels after going 5-7 with a 6.52 ERA in 16 games in the final season of a three-year, $16.05 million contract

It's a fact: Former Twins outfielder Kirby Puckett will work the first three games of the series with the Devil Rays as a radio broadcaster.

Who's hot: The Mariners' Nos. 3-4-5 hitters - Alex Rodriguez, Edgar Martinez and John Olerud - went 22-for-48 (.458) with four homers and 11 RBIs in the series against the Yankees.

Who's not: The Yankees' David Cone is 3-15 in 33 starts since pitching a perfect game against Montreal on July 18, 1999.

On deck: Athletics rookie Barry Zito will make his Yankee Stadium debut against Roger Clemens today.