Sports
Orioles Clinch a Postseason Berth
The Orioles could win the American League East, but will at worst earn a wild card berth.
The Orioles clinched a playoff berth Sunday, meaning Baltimore will experience postseason baseball for the first time since 1997.
With Sunday's win, the Orioles (92-67) swept Boston. That victory, combined with the Rangers evening win against the Angels, eliminated the Angles from postseason contention, assuring the Orioles of their first playoff appearance since winning the American League East in 1997.
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Texas lost Game 1 of a doubleheader Sunday, but rebounded to win the second game, 8-7, against a pesky Angels bunch.
Texas clinched a playoff spot, as well, and maintains a lead over Oakland in the American League West. Oakland trails the Orioles in the wild card standings, but would be in the playoffs if the season ended Sunday.
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Detroit needs a win or a White Sox loss to eliminate Chicago in the Central. Tampa Bay remains alive in the wild card hunt—but a loss to the Orioles at any point would eliminate the Rays.
The Orioles stayed on the field to watch the final outcome of the first Rangers-Angels game Sunday, as an energized crowd remained in the ballpark with "O-mazing!" flashed on the right field out-of-town scoreboard. But the Angels rallied for two runs in the top of the ninth, sending the players into the clubhouse with their playoff fate undetermined.
The players acknowledged the fans on the way into the dugout, with manager Buck Showalter staying behind for a moment to wave to the crowd.
The Orioles remain in the hunt for the American League East division title, but at worst will play in a Friday wild card game. The winner of that single wild card game would move into the American League Division Series.
The Yankees won Sunday, remaining in a tie with the Orioles for the division lead.
Where the Orioles ultimately finish will be determined in their final series, which begins Monday at Tampa Bay. The season ends Wednesday.
For a breakdown of postseason schedules, click here.
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