21.   The divisional series ratings indicate that baseball fans are sharp enough to know a qualifier when they see one.

22.   The last time Gooden pitched, in the divisional series against the Red Sox, he lasted just two outs before being thrown out.

23.   Then came three consecutive victories over the wild-card Yankees after they had lost the first two games of the three-of-five divisional series.

24.   There was no filling the emptiness of losing twice at Camden Yards and falling behind in their divisional series.

25.   This series would be a preview of a divisional series between the Rangers and the White Sox if the American League standings as of Wednesday hold up.

26.   When the first baseman and the manager each were introduced before the opener of the divisional series against the Seattle Mariners, the roar shook the Bronx County Courthouse.

27.   While he is on the active roster for this divisional series against the Rangers, Strawberry continues to be bothered by mysterious abdominal pains.

28.   But Jackson played before the introduction of the divisional series, which added an extra round to the playoffs.

29.   It was just the fifth pinch-hit home run in divisional series history.