With an 81-60 record Triple-A Oklahoma City were crowned the Pacific Coast League American Northern Division champions. It was the second time they clinched the division in as many seasons as the Los Angeles Dodgers’ top Minor League affiliate.
Some steam was taken out of Oklahoma City’s sails prior to beginning their best-of-five series against Nashville Sounds (Oakland Athletics affiliate). With Rob Segedin already in the Majors, key contributors Austin Barnes, Jose De Leon and Yasiel Puig were among the September call-ups.
That came soon after it was apparent Trevor Oaks was unlikely to pitch again this season due to a groin injury.
Oklahoma City dropped the series opener at home, won Game 2, then faced elimination after losing Game 3. They responded with a 7-1 victory on Saturday in Nashville to force a decided Game 5.
Falling line line with the first four contests, the elimination game featured plenty of offense — a combined 19 runs and 26 hits — and five lead changes; the last of which came in the eighth inning.
With Oklahoma City trailing, 9-7, in the eighth inning, O’Koyea Dickson belted a go-ahead, three run homer that proved to be the difference in a 10-9 victory:
MUST SEE: Here's O'Koyea Dickson's game-winning, three-run home run! #ITFDBOKC pic.twitter.com/MbHLMk4ZYN
— OKC Dodgers (@okc_dodgers) September 12, 2016
The home run was Dickson’s third of the series and 21st this season. He was named PCL Player of the Week for Aug. 29-Sept. 5. Jacob Rhame closed the game out with a two-inning save.
Oklahoma City advanced to face the El Paso Chihuahuas (San Diego Padres affiliate) in the PCL Championship series. The best-of-five series begins Tuesday at Southwest University Park.
Game 3 (Friday) and if necessary, Games 4 (Saturday) and 5 (Sunday), will be played at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.
