1.   If you can detour past what the Atlanta Braves reliever said, some could interpret this as another shameful hit-and-run, media-created event.

2.   The long reliever said he was not sure if he can pitch two straight days.

3.   The reliever said he had lost the touch on his slider and did not feel smooth in his mechanics without consistent work.

4.   The Texas Rangers reliever said he is contemplating retirement.

5.   The New York reliever said he was to meet Friday with Mets psychiatrist Allan Lans, coordinator of the Employee Assistance Program, Newsday reported Friday.