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Padres clinch third consecutive postseason berth, a franchise first

Before this decade, the Padres made the playoffs only five times in more than a half-century.

Published: Friday, 25 September 2026 at 5:02 AM
Padres clinch third consecutive postseason berth, a franchise first
Key Things to Know
  • The Padres defeated the Dodgers 4-2 to secure their third consecutive postseason berth for the first time in franchise history.
  • San Diego broke through against Tyler Glasnow in the sixth inning behind contributions from Ethan Salas and Fernando Tatis Jr.
  • The Padres improved to 89-70 and remained in contention to host a National League Wild Card Series.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The San Diego Padres defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 4-2 on Thursday to secure a franchise-record third consecutive postseason berth. Nick Pivetta and three relievers limited the Dodgers, while rookie catcher Ethan Salas, Fernando Tatis Jr., Austin Hays, and Dustin Harris drove in key runs starting in the sixth inning.

The victory gave manager Craig Stammen's squad their first series win at Dodger Stadium since April 2024 and improved their record to 89-70. Having won 39 of their last 56 games, the Padres remain in contention to host an NL Wild Card series against the Chicago Cubs.

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