(UPDATED: 9/29) Clinching Drama; NL Wild Card drama finalized

NL West: The National League West is no longer an open race. The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks last night (9/19), as their 7-6 score got them into the playoffs for the first time since they won the division in 2009.

With A.J. Ellis' go-ahead homer, the Dodgers can focus on winning home-field advantage now, as they have guaranteed themselves a ticket into October baseball for the first time since 2009. In that three year span, the Dodgers never finished above 86 wins, and had one losing season.

AL East: In the American League races, the Boston Red Sox have the AL East with a 6-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays (9/20). Behind great pitching from John Lester, they will reach the playoffs for the first time since 2009. This has been quite a comeback for the Red Sox who finished with a 69-93 record last season.

NL East: The Braves have clinched the National League East with a Nationals 4-2 loss to the Miami Marlins (9/21). They are looking to win home field advantage in the National League. They are playing Colorado today. 

AL West: The American League West also has been won. With a 4-0 loss by the Texas Rangers, the Oakland A's will take the division for the second consecutive year as they are currently playing the Twins this afternoon. (9/21)

AL Central: The Tigers clinched the American League Central yesterday (9/25), with a classic Max Scherzer gem, as he pitched seven innings of shutout ball, and struck out ten, en route to his 21st win. He has been great for the Tigers this season, and continues to come through in clutch moments. They beat the Twins, 1-0.

NL Central: The St. Louis Cardinals have clinched the National League Central, with a 7-0 win over the Chicago Cubs yesterday (9/27). Lance Lynn tossed six shutout, as the Cards cruised to their first division title since 2009. This is their third consecutive playoff appearance. 


1st NL Wild Card: The Pittsburgh Pirates will be getting a home playoff game on October 1st, as they will be playing the Cincinnati Reds for the 2013 NL Wild Card game. They clinched it yesterday (9/28).

2nd NL Wild Card: Due to the Pittsburgh Pirates locking up the #1 spot, the Cincinnati Reds will guarantee themselves the second Wild Card spot.