41.   Including Erstad, the Angels have used eight players in the designated-hitter spot this season.

42.   It figures to be even more difficult in the playoffs, where coaches tend to stick with successful combinations longer and use fewer players.

43.   International Ice Hockey Federation chairman Rene Fasel, on instructions from Bettman, reversed an earlier decision that barred European teams from using NHL players.

44.   It might not be enough, and even the finely tuned plans to use tired players are being changed on the fly like so many forward lines.

45.   It has to do with the way the team is built, the way Jacques uses players.

46.   Italian Coach Arrigo Sacchi, who shuffled lineups and used more players than just about anyone in the World Cup, continued that strategy again Sunday.

47.   Last week, the Patriots had more protection, sometimes using seven players to block, and were able to pick up the Dolphin blitzes.

48.   Leebove said the teamsters would hold demonstrations at major league stadiums throughout the country if replacement players were used on opening day.

49.   Lord Peter two years ago tried to be a hero by refusing to use replacement players in spring training.

50.   Lucchino credited general manager Kevin Towers with creatively putting the team together and manager Bruce Bochy with using the players wisely.