Playoff Preview

A scout's-eye view of the leading players in the battles for the league pennants—and berths in the World Series

ATHLETICS :

Luis Polonia , If. Dangerous leadoff man who can fly. Sprays ball, but can drive it over outfielders to left and left center.

Stan Javier , cf-lf. Has become a better hitter righthanded, though average (.258) doesn't reflect it. Good base runner, fine outfielder, valuable role player.

Dave Henderson , cf. Huge talent came together in 1988. Hits low ball for power. Learned to be selective. Best athlete on team.

Jose Canseco , rf. Most teams try to minimize his damage and pitch to Parker. Chases breaking balls. Power is from alley to alley. Runs at will.

Dave Parker , dh. Improved down the stretch since recovering from thumb injury. Lefthander who, when jammed, will fight ball into left. Hits lefties well.

Mark McGwire , lb. Has holes—particularly fastballs in—but crushes breaking balls and any mistakes. Underrated first baseman with soft hands.

Carney Lansford , 3b. Right thumb injury limits ability to handle bat and hit for power. Sometimes chases bad pitches, but a deadly breaking-ball hitter.

Terry Steinbach , c. Underrated. Good high-fastball hitter, but can also handle off speed stuff. Batted .300 since All-Star break. Very tough with men on.