Give it another try

Though Friday night was a frustrating and disappointing one for the Wild Things - two costly walks in the top of the sixth, too many strikeouts, an attempt at a reverse double play that probably cost Washington a run, a diving catch by Windy City's John McCarthy in the 8th inning that robbed Robbie Knapp of a key hit etc. - one guy who had a good game was shortstop Ryan Bethel. He had two of Washington's six hits and continued his solid play in the postseason.

Being in the playoffs is something Bethel couldn't imagine a month ago. He was playing for Evansville, which was on its way to a last-place finish in the West Division when the Wild Things swung a trade for the switch-hitter at the transaction deadline.

"I love it here," Bethel said. "This is a great place to play. I thought I'd finish out the season at Evansville and look forward to next year. I thank (Washington general manager) Ross Vecchio every day for believing in me enough to make that trade."

Washington will send ace Aaron Ledbetter to the mound tonight and use Tom Cochran in Game 5, if necessary. Windy City manager Andy Haines said Friday he was "90 percent sure" that rookie Brock Hunton would pitch Game 4. My guess is there was only 10 percent truth in that statement. I think it's likely that the ThunderBolts will go with Game 1 starter Eric Fussell tonight and use Shawn Phillips, the Game 2 starter, if a fifth game is played. The only drawback for Windy City is Fussell hasn't pitched on three days rest all season, but when you're facing elimination you have to go with your best pitcher, right? The only other alternative for Windy City would be to start Hunton and bring in Fussell at the first sign of trouble.