Slayers Closing in on Playoffs

via Slayer Press
MINAS MORGUL - August seems way too early to talk about clinching playoff spots. However, it is conceivable that the Slayers can clinch the Troll Division by Sept 1st. The team's magic number is 13. So, a combination of Slayers wins and whoever ends up in second place (it's a 3-way race for 2nd place...28-32 games back...) will seal up the division officially. With two weeks left in August, it is not out of the question, especially if the Slayers get back on their .750 pace they showed for two full months.

Some concerns do show up, mostly in the pitching staff. It has been down some this month, perhaps wearing down under the 4-man rotation. Of course, it could just be a down period, but at this point, K.L. has decided to try a 5th starter to see if there's a difference.

"It may be fatigue, or just a slump, or perhaps interleague play. But it costs us nothing to really take a look, and there's no reason to really use the 4-man at this point. If we can't close the deal now, we deserve to be thrown out of the league." K.L. spoke.

The Slayers are also using it as an excuse to 'clean up' the minors. RP Xiques is already rumored to be dropped, his 1.6 million coming of the books. Mulhern will probably be dropped to make room for the first of the fifth starter guinea pigs, "In the Ear" Earunduil. The team will probably start calling up some of these "out of options" players to see what they can do, and then release them if they fail at the majors. September could be a make or break month for who ever gets the call.

The offense seems to be doing alright sans Badgerpoker. They looked a little limp two weeks ago, but came alive last week, including winning a 12-9 shoot out. Imrilron might count himself lucky that he has his extension, however, as he's been sliding since May. The team doesn't expect power, but his BABIP seems weak for him, and it's impacting his OBP.

New acquisition Boli Stoneteeth has been very strong. While his level of play so far is not likely sustainable, it is a very promising sign. He has been light on the doubles given his gap power, so if he average evens out and drops, hopefully his doubles will do the same and improve.

"Overall, the team is still being a competitive bunch and looking as strong as expected. We're doing well, and hopefully we'll be able to put things together fully before the playoffs." K.L. commented.

Posted at May 14, 2007 06:42 AM | more from Minas Morgul