Crew in playoffs for first time since ’11

The Brewers clinched their first playoff spot since 2011, ensuring at least a spot in the NL wild-card game after Jhoulys Chacin pitched five scoreless innings to help beat the Cardinals 2-1 for a three-game sweep.

The Brewers are still a halfgame behind the Cubs in the Central and four games ahead of the Dodgers for the top wildcard spot. The Cardinals are one game behind the Dodgers for the second wild-card berth.

◆ German Marquez started with eight straight strikeouts to match a modern-era big-league record, and the Rockies routed the Phillies 14-0 to move into first place in the NL West, a halfgame ahead of the Dodgers.

◆ A.J. Pollock hit a three-run homer, and the Diamondbacks dropped the Dodgers into second place in the NL West with a 7-2 win.

◆ The Orioles suffered a franchise-record 112th loss after being routed by the Red Sox 19-3 in the first game of a doubleheader. The Orioles won the second game 10-3.

◆ Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius was cleared to resume baseball activities after a hand specialist examined his right wrist.

◆ Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson has a partially torn ligament in his left hand and will be re-evaluated next week.

◆ The Blue Jays parted ways with manager John Gibbons at the end of the season.

NFL Jeffery back with Eagles

Alshon Jeffery was cleared for contact after offseason shoulder surgery and practiced with the Eagles.

◆ Rams cornerback Aqib Talib will miss at least eight weeks after being put on injured reserve with an high-ankle sprain.

MISCELLANEOUS Fire’s road woes continue

The Fire (7-16-7) remained winless in their last 10 road matches after a 2-0 defeat to New York City FC. Alexander Ring and David Villa scored four minutes apart in the second half as New York City FC clinched a playoff spot.

◆ Kelly Bryant has decided to transfer from Clemson after losing the starting quarterback job.