11.   And there is something of a battle going on for the final playoff roster spot.

12.   And they know the only chance they have to contend for a playoff spot is to get a big improvement from the pitchers, particularly their starters.

13.   And with Montreal fighting for a playoff spot in the East, there is a chance only two of seven Canadian teams, Toronto and Ottawa, will qualify.

14.   And with the magic number for clinching a playoff spot down to one, the Red Sox no longer have to concern themselves with Toronto.

15.   As in the majors, the different classes are divided into leagues and divisions, with teams competing for playoff spots and a crack at the championship series.

16.   As the Jets vie for a playoff spot, they also need plays, not just potential, from Johnny Mitchell.

17.   At the least, they have secured the eighth and final playoff spot.

18.   Because the Western Conference is so weak, they are real bona fide contenders for a playoff spot.

19.   Being in the race for a playoff spot could help Sosa.

20.   Boston, which saw its road winning streak snapped at five, still is tied with Indiana for the eighth Eastern Conference playoff spot with nine games to play.