21.   Cincinnati acquired pitcher Juan Guzman from Baltimore strictly for the stretch run.

22.   Cubs fans can stop fantasizing about pitcher Jeremi Gonzalez returning for the stretch run this season.

23.   Davis came through with a dazzling stretch run that culminated against Washington in the home finale, when he waved goodbye to the crowd in the final seconds.

24.   During spring training, the Astros were hoping Alou would return in time for the stretch run.

25.   Each team had made it here by saving its best basketball for the regular-season stretch run and the tournament.

26.   Embattled coach Pete Carroll had hoped a red-hot Bledsoe and the return to health of wide receiver Terry Glenn might spark his team during the December stretch run.

27.   Even his perfectly chiseled, fat-free backups do some serious moaning during the stretch run of this workout.

28.   Figuring in Kersey and a little bit from McMillan for the stretch run should strengthen the rotation.

29.   Finally, the Jets are in a stretch run with first place in their hands.

30.   For now, he will stay here to lend support as the Bruins make the stretch run and take his rehab day by day while facing an uncertain future.