NEW YORK — Alec Bohm had four hits and four RBIs, including a three-run homer, and the Philadelphia Phillies wrapped up their third straight playoff berth in style by blowing out the New York Mets 12-2 on Friday night.
Nick Castellanos had three hits and two RBIs, J.T. Realmuto added a two-run homer and the Phillies (92-62) extended their NL East lead to seven games over the second-place Mets (85-69) with eight to play.
''I thought it was just a great night overall,'' manager Rob Thomson said.
Assured at least a National League wild card, the Phillies can secure their first division title since 2011 with one more win this weekend against the rival Mets at Citi Field.
"We work really hard all season, six months for this,'' winning pitcher Cristopher Sánchez said through a translator. ''I think it's just something beautiful that this happened today. Something really special for us.''
With the division crown so close, the Phillies kept it mellow in the postgame clubhouse with a champagne toast to their achievement led by Thomson.
''Pretty calm and relaxed from what it usually turns into,'' Bohm said with a chuckle.
They hope to let loose soon with a boozy locker-room bash after nailing down first place.