Surprises Of The Summer

NL HITTING

Derrek Lee, Cubs, .383. Career high: .282 2004 leader at break: Barry Bonds, Giants, .365; final stat: .362, 1st in league

In Lee's Triple Crown quest, winning a batting title will be the toughest task for the career .275 hitter, especially with Albert Pujols (.342) and Miguel Cabrera (.340) looming behind him.

AL HITTING

Brian Roberts, Orioles, .360. Career high: .273 2004 leader at break: Ivan Rodriguez, Tigers, .369; final stat: .334, 4th

Not since Frank Robinson hit .316 in 1966 has an Oriole won a batting title, but Baltimore's diminutive second baseman has the stroke and speed to keep his average up.

AL HOME RUNS

Mark Teixeira, Rangers, 22. Career high: 38 2004 leader at break: Manny Ramirez, Red Sox, 26; final stat: 43, 1st

A home run title this year could be the first of many for the Rangers' 25-year-old first baseman, who's thriving in Arlington's homer-happy Ameriquest Field after cutting down on his strikeouts.

NL RBIS