The race for the four-team playoffs appears to be focusing on four teams. Conti Auto Body, led by the overpowering pitching of Matthew Rosen and Jim Murphy, jumped to a two-game lead when they defeated runner-up Duo Restaurant 7-3. Rosen aided his own cause by blasting a two-run home run over the right center field fence.

Two days later, Duo Restaurant bounced back with a 27-15 victory over Syosset Exxon to maintain sole possession of second place. Zach Gerakaris, Eric Wagner, "Buzz" Barcavage, Tom Florez and Andrew Naveretta led the onslaught. Barnett Associates kept pace with impressive victories over Syosset Exxon (16-4) and Formed Plastic (22-8). Thomas Morritt's strong relief pitching plus the extra-base hitting of Eddie Schantz and Jared Mogil led Barnett to its two victories.

Standings

Beechwoods, Manhattan Marketing and Canyon Holdings are starting to separate from the rest of the division as the season heads toward the playoffs. Beachwoods, led by Jeremy Pike's solid defense at first base, Brendan Berger's speed on the base paths and Nick Ryan's strong catching, has jumped into the division lead with 10 wins against only one loss. Canyon Holdings, led by Chris Zink's catching, Matthew Greenspan's 6-0 record as a pitcher and Jeff Eilan's flawless play at first base, remains only 1/2 game behind, along with Manhattan Marketing.

Battling for the final spot in the playoffs is KSH Yankees. Justin Avelar, Michael Scordo and Max Kimbarow have led KSH Yankees to a 5-4-1 record whichi s currently good enough for fourth place in the division. 525 has an outside shot at the playoffs due to the strong play of Matthew Wong at first base, Evan Zablow at catcher and Jay Sadis at shortstop.

Standings