BASEBALL
Offensively depleted Astros counting on comeback from Andy Pettitte • Starters with health concerns are key in NL Central
THE NBA
Supposedly soft Yao makes gains • 76ers' center could be key to turnaround • Growing pains for slam dunk champ
COLOR PHOTO
Photograph by Brad Mangin
HIGH HOPES
Vladimir Guerrero's Angels, who took their cuts against the Cubs last Sunday in Tempe, Ariz., are favored in the AL West.
