Thrilling Final Week for Jackrabbits (Hoppy Endings, pre-sim 26) [PP:2054.33]

[neugey]

Don’t tell the Jackrabbits that the playoffs begin in another week. For all intents and purposes, it feels like they are already underway.

With a 6-1 surge during this last week improving their record to 80-75, Edmonton now has a 72.5% chance to earn a Johnson wildcard berth. But this next week of games is very important for Edmonton, because they happen to play Boise and Las Vegas. Those are the two teams that are right next to the Jackrabbits in the standings who are also fighting for a wildcard spot.

There are no days of rest this week as Edmonton hosts Boise for 3 games, then travels to Las Vegas for a 4-game road series to end the regular season. Even though rosters are expanded and there are plenty of hands on deck, the busy schedule still has General Manager Mike Bauer concerned.

“Things are very close in this race right now,” Bauer explained. “To be safe, we have to plan as if there will be a tie and a 1-game winner-take-all play-in game. We’ve got to be prepared for that outcome, though obviously we’d prefer to clinch by next Wednesday and not have that scenario take place.”

Bauer was then asked what his feelings were about being on the verge of a playoff spot. “It’s exciting that our organization is making these strides forward. Weeks like this are what we play for. To make our first playoff spot since 2047, that would be quite special.”

“Our pitching staff in particular has come together so well this season. We’re not the most talented bunch on paper, but this group of guys has a synergy about them. And our success is due in large part to the leadership our new manager Alonso Chavez has provided. He’s got the pulse of this team. Veteran hitters like Scott Bell and Manny Collazo have been hot lately. And we’ve got an all-star catcher with playoff experience in Shiplack that we can lean on. We’re really going to make a run at this and if we make the playoffs then anything is possible. Magical things often occur in the BBA postseason.”