Time is running out on the 2009 MLS season and it looks like the race for the playoffs is going to go right down to the wire. Each game now carries so much importance that it's almost like the playoffs have already begun.
If the season ended today, Columbus and Chicago would claim the Eastern Conference automatic berths, while Houston and Los Angeles would be in from the West. But it's the at-large berths that are really tight. Seven teams are serious contenders for the four spots: Colorado, Seattle, New England, Chivas USA, Real Salt Lake, D.C. United and Toronto. These are the teams that I'll say are "on the bubble."
Each club has only a precious few more chances to secure a spot. In my opinion, players that have something to prove and a specific goal are the ones you want. That's why this week I'm picking one difference maker from each of the above bubble teams. These are the guys that need to step up, and these are the guys I'll be trusting to earn me some valuable late-season points.
Colorado Rapids
Everyone knows about Conor Casey and Omar Cummings, and each is still a great value. But you might also consider goalkeeper Matt Pickens, who comes on the cheap (about 90K) but has recorded seven shutouts this season, including one Saturday against Toronto FC. Having a 'keeper from a winning team is huge, and only Houston has recorded more wins than the Rapids.
Seattle Sounders FC
Fredy Montero is the Sounders' go-to guy on offense, but what about in the back? James Riley is averaging 10 fantasy points per game and he'll only cost you about 75K. He does have a tendency to lose his cool, so just hope that he can stay out of trouble as the expansion side looks for a playoff berth in the inaugural season at Qwest Field.
New England Revolution
It was only a few weeks ago that this team looked almost dead and buried, but now they're right in the thick of it, even after suffering a 4-2 loss to Kansas City over the weekend. Rookie Kevin Alston has looked lively on the wing, and they don't come any cheaper than 45K. The Maryland native is still looking for his first professional goal, but he's averaging seven fantasy points per game.
Chivas USA
Maicon Santos picked up an assist in his first appearance for Chivas USA and has seen time in three matches since joining the club on loan. The Brazilian has looked solid so far and will certainly be trying to make an impression while helping Preki's club into the postseason. Snap this guy up and hope he pans out.
Real Salt Lake
This is a tough one to pick, but I'll stick my neck out and say Clint Mathis. He's an experienced guy who always seems to play better in big games. From now until the end of the season, every RSL is a big game for the club. He should add to his totals of two goals and seven assists. But you don't need me to explain why he's a risky pick either.
D.C. United
The Black-and-Red are desperate to get into the postseason but have been consistently inconsistent this year. A big stretch of home games might be just what the doctor ordered. It's a bit of a revolving door in the back these days, but Bryan Namoff is the ever-present member of this back line. The veteran has already set career highs in goals (two) and assists (four) and has suddenly emerged as a pretty serious threat on set pieces.
Toronto FC
Nobody's really talking aobut this team, but they've got a great opportunity to get into the playoffs, despite a mediocre 8-9-7 record. Stafan Frei has been very good in goal, and he is a fantastic value at around 55K. While his stats may show him as one of the league's best in net, he's averaging 11 points a game -- right up there with the best in the business.
Get out there and make your trades because you're running out of time. Good luck!