PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 30 (UPI) -- Raul Ibanez drove in three runs Wednesday and Philadelphia won its third consecutive National League East pennant with a 10-3 decision over Houston.
The Phillies actually clinched the division title just seconds before the end of their game when Atlanta fell to Florida and removed the last obstacle Philadelphia had in its path.
Philadelphia players gathered along the first base line for celebratory hugs after the final out, then turned their attention to a possible second straight World Series title.
The Phillies became the sixth team to wrap up a post-season berth, joining the Los Angeles Dodgers, St. Louis, New York Yankees, Boston and Los Angeles Angels.
Ibanez had a sacrifice fly in the fifth and hit a two-run homer in the seventh to finish the scoring.
He also reached on a key throwing error by pitcher Brian Moehler in what turned out to be a four-run Philadelphia fourth.
Reliever Kyle Kendrick (3-1) got the win, striking out four and allowing two hits in three scoreless innings.
In a tribute by Manager Charlie Manuel, struggling closer Brad Lidge was called on to record the final out. Lidge has suffered 11 blown saves this year.
Moehler (9-11) gave up six runs on six hits in 4 1/3 innings to take the loss.
