31.   There is also a strong chance that their highest-priced defensive player, McGinest, will be kept out by a left groin strain.

32.   They again played without All-Star starting shortstop Nomar Garciaparra, who is bothered by a pulled left groin that has kept him out of four straight games.

33.   Third baseman Adrian Beltre returned to the lineup after missing two games with a strained left groin....

34.   Tony Delk was back at practice, working his way back from a strained left groin, which sidelined him for five games.

35.   Winger Grant Marshall could be out for an extended period with an injured left groin muscle, joining winger Benoit Hogue as unlikely to play in the Finals.

36.   With point guard Kenny Andersonnursing a strained left groin, the second-year pro Chris Childs will probably get extended playing time against Houston.

37.   Perez left in the fifth because of a strained left groin.

38.   Pierce, champion here two years ago, also overcame a left groin strain that limited her mobility.

39.   A day after leaving a game with a tight left groin, Andy Pettitte said he expected to make his next scheduled start for the New York Yankees.

40.   A pulled left groin kept him out of the lineup.