Brewers rally, bolster chances with win over Reds

CINCINNATI » Facing a loss that could have deeply dented their playoff chances, the Milwaukee Brewers pulled one out behind an infielder who hasn’t been able to crack the starting lineup lately.

Eric Sogard doubled home the goahead run in the seventh inning, and Milwaukee rallied Tuesday for a 3-2 victory over the surging Cincinnati Reds that bolstered the Brewers’ sagging playoff hopes.

“A huge game,” said Sogard, who came in batting .186. “Every game is do-or-die for us right now.”

The Brewers have won four of five and are back to .500 (27-27) for the eighth time this season.

Cincinnati (28-28) wasted a chance to solidify its playoff standing and move two games over .500 for the first time in three years.

INDIANS 5, WHITE SOX 3 » With one swing, José Ramírez pushed Cleveland into the playoffs and strengthened his case for the AL MVP award. Ramírez hit a three-run homer with two outs in the 10th inning, giving the Indians a win over Chicago that clinched a postseason berth.

Ramírez’s drive to right off José Ruiz scored César Hernández and Francisco Lindor, setting off a wild celebration as the Indians reached the postseason for the fourth time in five years.

Simmons opts out of final 5

ANAHEIM » Shortstop Andrelton Simmons has opted out of the remainder of the Los Angeles Angels’ season.

Los Angeles (24-31) is still technically in the playoff race with five games left in the regular season, and Simmons clearly caught the Angels by surprise, although the club said it respected his decision.