Dodgers Clinch 5th Straight NL West Title, Making It 13 In Past 14 Seasons
The Los Angeles Dodgers clinched the National League West Division title for the fifth consecutive season, the 13th time in the last 14 campaigns, after defeating the Cincinnati Reds 8-2 on Thursday. Kyle Tucker led the attack with four hits, including a home run in the first inning, and was a triple shy of the cycle.
The two-time World Series champions already had their 14th consecutive postseason appearance secured, a figure that chases the record of Atlanta between 1991 and 2005. The Dodgers (93-60) had guaranteed at least a wild card spot on Monday, and now opened a nine-and-a-half game lead over San Diego, their closest pursuer in the division.
Tucker drove in three runs with his 16th home run of the season, a double and a single, plus another double. Freddie Freeman contributed a sacrifice fly and Max Muncy hit a two-run double in the fourth inning, when Los Angeles extended the lead to 7-0. Reds starter Brady Singer allowed seven runs, nine hits and four walks in 3 1/3 innings. On the mound, Justin Wrobleski allowed no baserunners in three innings in his first start since September 6, and Landon Knack added his first Major League win since May 31 of last year.
The Dodgers now seek to surpass Milwaukee, who entered Thursday with a record of 95-57, to secure the best playoff position in the National League. The team also reported that reliever Edwin Díaz, who was recovering from neck inflammation, completed his minor league rehab assignment and will be activated this weekend. Los Angeles returns to action on Friday with Tyler Glasnow as the starter against San Francisco.
