The Rochester Red Wings are headed back to the postseason for the first time since 2013 after defeating the Buffalo Bisons 15-8 on Sunday afternoon.
Rochester entered the day needing a victory to punch its ticket after both the Indianapolis Indians and Syracuse Mets lost Saturday night. Those results created a win-or-go-home scenario for the Red Wings, who responded with one of their biggest offensive performances of the season.
The victory capped a remarkable regular season for Rochester, which finished with a 90-58 record. The Red Wings’ 90 victories are their most in a single season since 1953.
Rochester narrowly missed out on winning the first half of the International League season, but the team remained in contention throughout the second half and ultimately earned one of the league’s limited postseason berths.
Only four teams qualify for the postseason at the Triple-A level. The first-half winners from the International League and Pacific Coast League automatically advance, while the second-half winners from each league also earn postseason berths. Rochester secured its place by winning the second half of the International League.
The Red Wings will now turn their attention to the postseason, where they will face Memphis in a best-of-three opening-round series. Rochester will begin the series on the road Tuesday, September 22.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.