With a 13-game homestand, the Sky Sox likely will have a chance to clinch their first playoff berth since 1997 at Security Service Field. Reno — the Triple-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks — is up first with a four-game set starting at 7:05 p.m. today. The Sky Sox hold a 61/2-game lead over Tacoma in the Pacific Coast League Pacific North Division with 17 games left.

PROSPECTS TO WATCHCesar Valdez, RHPThe organization’s No. 7 overall prospect, according to Baseball America, returned from the disabled list Thursday with a two-inning outing. In April, he topped the Sky Sox and Brandon Hynick.

Billy Buckner, RHPRanked right behind Valdez, Buckner continues to control minor-league hitters (8-3, 3.20 ERA), but has struggled in his chances in the majors (4-7, 6.50). No, he’s not related to the other Bill Buckner.

John Hester, CNot viewed as a top prospect before the season, Hester’s .330 average might be changing minds. If not, his .632 slugging percentage since the All-Star break should do the trick. Plus, Hester and Arizona manager A.J. Hinch both caught at Stanford, which can’t hurt his chances.

NAMES YOU MAY KNOWEric Byrnes, OFThe former MVP candidate and ex-Rockie-turned-heated-foe has been on a rehab assignment since Aug 16. There is no timetable for his return.

Daniel Cabrera, RHPBig-time strikeout pitcher who teased Baltimore for five years with his tantalizing potential, Cabrera never did find his control and has bounced around this year.

Ruben Gotay, 2BEx-infielder with the Royals, Mets and Braves leads the PCL with 94 walks.

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