Dodgers clinch postseason berth in 8-4 win over D-backs

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Dodgers are chasing the San Francisco Giants in the NL West. They caught their rival in one big way by becoming the second team in the majors to clinch a postseason berth.

Max Muncy, Trea Turner and Will Smith homered in an 8-4 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Tuesday night that was their fifth in a row.

The Giants had locked up a playoff spot a night earlier. The Dodgers secured their ninth consecutive postseason appearance with their eighth straight home win and help from Cincinnati and San Diego, which both lost. The defending World Series champions got it done at home, where their 51-23 record leads the majors.

“It’s definitely something that shouldn't be taken for granted,” third baseman Justin Turner said. “At the same time, our focus is on us and taking care of what’s in front of us. That’s probably why I didn’t even realize we had a chance to clinch tonight.”

The Giants partied after making the postseason for the first time in five years. The Dodgers kept things low key.

“We did a little Champagne toast, said a few words and acknowledged the fact that it’s a big accomplishment,” said manager Dave Roberts, wearing a blue “Built for October” T-shirt. “We got a lot of work to do and this is just the beginning.”

The Dodgers finally have their full rotation — led by Cy Young Award contenders Walker Buehler, Max Scherzer and Julio Urías — in place after numerous injuries.

“You win with starting pitching and I believe we have the best starting pitching in baseball,” Roberts said. “I love where we’re at.”

Tony Gonsolin (3-1) scattered two hits over five scoreless innings, struck out six and walked two.

“I’ve been kind of grinding with the team the whole year," Gonsolin said, "but being...

source https://www.chron.com/sports/article/Dodgers-clinch-postseason-berth-in-8-4-win-over-16460065.php