9/20 Morning Marquee: Dodgers rout Cubs, clinch postseason berth; Tigers stretch Central lead

The Chicago Cubs were able to rattle Clayton Kershaw, giving the potential Cy Young winner all he could handle. Unfortunately for the Cubs, the Los Angeles Dodgers ace got all the support he needed in the first to help him pick-up his 20th victory. Edwin Jackson made his return from the DL for the Cubs, but it was a short one as he was chased after only 2/3 of an inning in the 14-5 Dodgers win. The victory helped the Dodgers clinch a postseason berth.

The Detroit Tigers got a gem from Justin Verlander, and the bats did their part in a 10-1 blowout of the Kansas City Royals, increasing their lead in the division to 1 1/2 games over KC. Ian Kinsler supported the cause with three hits and three RBIs, including a two-run home run.

Jon Lester was sharp for the Oakland Athletics as they snatched back the lead in the Wild Card with a 3-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies. Lester allowed only one run over seven innings as the A’s took a 1/2 game lead in a crowded WC race.

Here’s the highlights from last night’s action:

‘Clayton Kershaw picks up 20th win as Dodgers top Cubs, 14-5 – Cubbies Crib

‘Tigers decimate Royals in opener of penultimate series’ – Motor City Bengals

‘Lester pushes A’s back on top of Wild Card standings’ – MLB.com

‘Brewers can’t lock down late lead, Pirates pick up another game’ – Reviewing the Brew

‘Tony Cruz’s single results in Walk-off win’ – Redbird Rants