Tyler Trumbauer
With each loss, the Philadelphia Phillies are getting closer and closer to being mathematically eliminated from postseason play.
Although the big league club will be playing golf instead of baseball this fall, two of its minor league affiliates will be on the diamond instead of the links.
The Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs clinched a playoff berth on Friday night with a 7-1 win against Rochester. The Pigs are joining the Reading Fightins, of the double-A level, who are also playoff bound.
This trip to the postseason for the IronPigs is just the second one in franchise history and the team nearly set franchise history along the way with its first no-hitter, but fell just short.
With 2 out in 9th, @IronPigs lose no-hitter, but win 7-1 to secure 2nd playoff berth in franchise history. @BenLively19 wins 18th @MiLB game
— Tom Housenick (@TomHousenick) September 3, 2016
The IronPigs secured a wild card spot and will face Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees in the first round, which begins on Wednesday. First game is at home at Coca-Cola Park, and they are excited.
Congrats @IronPigs! On to the playoffs! #BringHomeTheBaconpic.twitter.com/mnH2EuMB4I
— Kurt Landes (@kurtlandes) September 3, 2016
The Reading Fightins clinched a playoff berth back on August 27, however, they are still fighting for something as an Eastern Division crown is still up for grabs. Reading’s magic number is just one to claim that divisional title.
Reading’s regular season concludes on Monday. The first round of the playoffs are slated to begin on Wednesday.