Chapman geared up for NLDS-clinching save

SAN FRANCISCO — As soon as the Cubs got a lead in the ninth inning against the Giants on Tuesday night, manager Joe Maddon didn’t hesitate to call on closer Aroldis Chapman coming off his rough outing the previous night.

Chapman struck out Gorkys Hernandez, Denard Span and Brandon Belt, needing 13 pitches to seal the Cubs’ 6-5 victory in Game 4 and clinch the National League Division Series. Chapman pitched in all four games, recording three of his four save opportunities. The one miss in Game 3 on Monday night is now forgotten.

“It was beautiful, man,” Maddon said. “He was so focused. You could see he was not going to be denied. He did not like what happened [Monday] night. He was outstanding.”

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On Monday, Chapman entered with two runners on in the eighth inning, and was only able to retire the first batter he faced before giving up an two-run triple and an RBI single. The Giants won, 6-5.

Game Date Matchup TV/Highlights Gm 1 Oct. 7 CHC 1, SF 0 Gm 2 Oct. 8 CHC 5, SF 2 Gm 3 Oct. 10 SF 6, CHC, 5 (13) …

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