Dogs Clinch With Win

That which seemed inevitable when the Portland Sea Dogs started the season with ten straight wins was finally made official Thursday night. Portland's 7-6 victory over Altoona, combined with Trenton's 13-0 loss to Norwich, clinched the fourth division title in the history of the Sea Dogs, and their first since 1997. The Sea Dogs spotted the Curve a 5-1 lead early in the game, but the bullpen pitched five solid innings (one run allowed) and the offense continued to chip away to kick off the celebration. Portland finishes the season with four games against EL South division champion Akron. It could be a preliminary look at the championship matchup, but the series will likely serve as a chance for both teams to get rest for some regulars and set up their pitching staffs for the playoffs.

Playoff plans can now be officially made. The Sea Dogs will carry the home field advantage in the first round, with games 1 and 2 scheduled for Wadnesday and Thursday (September 7 and 8). The final game of the series, if necessary, will be on Sunday, September 11. All games will start at 6:00 p.m. Portland will maintain home field advantage should they advance on to the finals.