by John Baum
ALL FOUR PLAYOFF TEAMS IN ACTION THE LAST WEEKEND OF THE REGULAR SEASON
CARDINALS AND INDIANS FIGHT FOR SECOND PLACE
Sunday in Bern the Cardinals (13-5) host the Lausanne Indians (11-7) in a doubleheader to decide the playoff seeds. The Cards are currently one win away from securing second place and home field advantage in the semis. If the Indians sweep, they will end up in second place.
The two teams met in what was a close and hard fought contest in the Swiss Cup finals two weeks ago, with the Indians coming out on top, 4-1. The Cardinals, who left 16 stranded runners in that game, will hope to come through with hits in their run scoring opportunities this week. The Indians now know they can beat the reigning champs, as this was their first ever victory over the
four-time Swiss title holder.
Both teams have a chance to finish in second our third place, with the Indians also having the possibility of finishing fourth. With this much on the line, and a possible rematch the next weekend in the semi-finals, both teams will want to bring their “A” game to the field.
FLYERS AND BARRACUDAS MAKE UP RAINED OUT GAME
Having already secured the top seed in this year’s playoffs, the Therwil Flyers (17-2) will finish their regular season against the Zurich Barracudas (12.7). The ‘Cudas, who are unsure of where they will be seeded come the playoffs, will look to better their chances of a two or three seed with a win. This will help them avoid the red hot (all season), Flyers, and likely set up a semi-final series vs. the Bern Cardinals.
The Barracudas finish in third place with… a Cardinal sweep over the Indians… a win for themselves and a Cards and Indians split.
The Flyers haven’t shown any weakness this season, and likely will play all their guys even though they don’t need the win, so it’s going to be difficult for the ‘Cudas. But again, in what could end up being a preview of the semi-finals, anything is possible.
{mrb-schedule:2008-09-06|2008-09-07|CH}
{mrb-standing:switzerland-2008}