ONE WIN FOR THE ROAD DODGERS TAKE HOME FINALE; PLAYOFF FATE UP IN AIR DODGERS 7, SAN FRAN. 5.

Byline: Jill Painter Staff Writer

In the final home game of the season, there couldn't have been a more fitting ending for Dodgers fans than Eric Gagne trotting out of the bullpen one last time.

Dodgers fans stood and applauded, like they always do, as he treated the San Francisco Giants to an assortment of wicked fastballs, unhittable changeups and slow curveballs. It ended with that trademark uppercut, signaling a Dodgers victory and his 53rd consecutive save.

And the hope that fans will see Gagne pitch here again - this season.

``It won't be the last time,'' Gagne said with a smile. ``We'll be back for the playoffs.''

The Dodgers seemed down and out Saturday after getting shut out by the Giants. They returned Sunday to rally for a 7-5 victory against San Francisco's second-string lineup in the season's final regular-season game at Dodger Stadium.

What's more, Philadelphia and Florida lost, helping the Dodgers move within 2 1/2 games of first in the National League wild-card race.

Just when you think the Dodgers are done, they're not.

``As Robin Ventura said, `I heard a heartbeat,' '' outfielder Dave Roberts said. ``We've got to ride this and keep going.''

The Dodgers remain in the playoff race, thanks in part to a rare power display Sunday to the tune of four home runs.

Shawn Green hit a two-run homer in the first inning. Robin Ventura, Adrian Beltre and Jeromy Burnitz hit consecutive solo home runs off Giants rookie Kevin Correia in the fourth inning to tie the game at 5-5. It was the first time since May 23, 2002, that the Dodgers hit three consecutive home runs.

Roberts tripled to right with two outs in the seventh off reliever Jim Brower for the game winner.

``Stranger things have happened,'' Roberts said of the playoff possibility. ``We're not going to quit. There's eight games left. We'll keep playing until the end as long as there's games.''

There's still games left on the Giants' schedule too, but manager Felipe Alou rested every regular starter except Jose Cruz Jr.

It's the second time in four games the Giants have fielded a lineup of bench players.

San Francisco already has clinched the National League West title, but there remains the question of home-field advantage for the NL playoffs. The Dodgers play their final eight games on the road, beginning with four today at San Diego.

Gagne came in with two outs in the eighth after Paul Shuey got Eric Young to hit into a double play. He then retired four batters to record his 61st consecutive save.

Gagne wasn't surprised that Alou didn't pinch hit for anyone.

``They were taking the day off,'' Gagne said. ``They don't have anything left to prove. They're already the champions.''

More days off are in store for Barry Bonds, who Alou said will play in just two of the final four games against the Dodgers.

Dodgers left-hander Kazuhisa Ishii got to rest early after he barely lasted three innings Sunday. Ishii walked five and allowed five earned runs on six hits. He also allowed Todd Linden's first career homer, a three-run shot.

Pitching coach Jim Colborn said Ishii had a severe headache and got sick during the game, but Ishii wouldn't discuss it.

``I have nothing to say as long as I'm throwing,'' said Ishii, who said he should have been more aggressive with his fastball. ``I shouldn't make any excuses.''

Ishii, who was on the disabled list with a knee injury until Aug. 30, dismissed any problems with his knee. But he was clearly not OK.

Jill Painter, [phone]

jill.painter(at)dailynews.com

CAPTION(S):

photo

Photo:

(cover -- color) STAYIN' ALIVE

The Dodgers rally to beat the Giants and pull within 2 1/2 games of the wild-card spot with eight games remaining.