21.   By the time he did, the Kings already were far back in the playoff race in November.

22.   Clubs out of the playoff race are picked over like a leftover turkey.

23.   Considering how tight the playoff race in the West is, even a small losing streak could keep them out of the postseason.

24.   Discussing the home-run chase in relation to the playoff race, McGwire wistfully said he would opt for the latter.

25.   Del Harris has enough to deal with, trying to field a healthy team in the middle of a playoff race.

26.   Entering having won four of their past five games, the Raiders seemed to get away from what got them back in the playoff race.

27.   For all the bashing and beating the Dodgers have taken, they will be involved in the playoff race after all.

28.   Forget about fourth through eighth place in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

29.   Golden State had a modest two-game winning streak, but that was good enough to thrust it back into the playoff race.

30.   Had the Mavericks played this efficient all season, they would be in the thick of the playoff race.