1.   Astros left fielder Lance Berkman remained out of the lineup Sunday for a third consecutive game with patella tendinitis in his left knee.

2.   A month ago he was on the disabled list with patella tendinitis, wondering if his season was finished.

3.   Patella tendinitis only muddles the equation.

4.   Rodriguez had patella tendinitis in his right knee during winter ball last November.

5.   Rodriguez remains a question because of patella tendinitis in his right knee.

6.   The Rangers are concerned about recurring patella tendinitis in his right knee.

7.   The patella tendinitis could be a factor.

8.   They are desperate for power, but McGwire has patella tendinitis in his right knee and is good for only one pinch-hitting appearance per game.

9.   Wilkins, who is bothered by painful patella tendinitis in his left, or non-kicking knee, will kick Sunday.

10.   Wilkins reaggravated the patella tendinitis in his left knee in the divisional playoff win over Minnesota.