Article: Bleacher bums, beware Big Mac's BP exploits are now game's big show; Batting Practice Facts WHO: Milwaukee Brewers vs. St. Louis Cardinals. WHERE: County Stadium. GAME TI

Mark McGwire isn't certain exactly when his swings during pre-game batting practice became must-see viewing, nor does he quite know what to make of the phenomenon.

"They never talked about it when I played in Oakland, and I did the same thing," St. Louis' slugging first baseman said. "I haven't changed anything."

The environment has changed, however. After being traded from the Athletics to the Cardinals last July, McGwire captured the imagination of the avid St. Louis fans with his chase of Roger Maris's single-season home run record of 61.

Big Mac fell short with 58 homers in 1997, but when he picked up the scent again early this season with a home-run barrage, the buzz resumed. And when ...

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