Braves clinch division title; Red Sox reach MLB playoffs

Manila Times - Sep 21, 2026

HOUSTON — Mike Yastrzemski smacked a game-winning three-run homer to lead Atlanta over Houston, 4-2, on Sunday (Monday in Manila) as the Braves clinched their seventh Major League Baseball division title in nine seasons. Atlanta’s victory also guaranteed a playoff spot for the Boston Red Sox, the sixth team to secure a post-season berth with a week remaining in the six-month campaign and six spots unclaimed. The Braves improved to 92-64 to take their first National League East division crown since 2023. “We’ve been fighting all year to get to this moment,” Braves pitcher Martin Perez said. “And we’re not done yet.” Houston’s loss ensured an American League wildcard playoff berth for Boston despite a 5-1 loss at Tampa Bay. “We never stopped believing in each other,” Boston outfielder Wilyer Abreu said. “That’s why we’re here.” The Chicago Cubs, who cruised 9-1 at Cincinnati, reached the brink of a National League playoff spot but missed out when Arizona rallied to beat the visiting New York Yankees, 8-4. Entering Sunday, the Braves, Yankees, Tampa Bay, Milwaukee and the Los Angeles Dodgers had clinched playoff berths, the Dodgers taking a 13th NL West title in 14 seasons and Milwaukee capturing the NL Central crown. Host Houston grabbed a 1-0 lead...

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