Clock begins ticking on Indians
If the Spokane Indians want to return to the Northwest League's postseason, they have must stir up some wins soon. Read game story
The Indians qualified for the postseason last year and played two competitive games before falling to Vancouver in the divisional playoffs.
Despite their 10-12 record in the second half of the Northwest League season, the Indians still have a shot at the playoffs because they only trail North Division first-place Everett by two games.
But time isn't on their side. The Indians are down to their final 16 games and must find a way to string together a solid winning streak.
The positive side is that Spokane has 11 games remaining against the teams it must beat to make the playoffs: Vancouver (five), Everett (three) and Tri-City (three).
The negative side is that Spokane must leap all three teams to win the division. Everett (12-10) leads the way, with Vancouver and Tri-City both 11-11.
It would also be detrimental for Spokane if Tri-City, the first-half champion, won the second half. In that situation, the second playoff berth would go to the team with the best overall record. Everett is five games ahead of Spokane after Thursday's results.
Spokane's best chance is to close on a hot streak and win the second half. The chase continues Friday at Avista Stadium.
