Yanks clinch playoff berth

Following a 6-1 victory over the Blue Jays, the Yankees clinched their 49th postseason berth in franchise history.

The decision not to rest CC paid off, as he threw a gem. The big guy went 8 1/3 innings (his second longest outing of the season) and gave up a run on three hits with eight strikeouts to two walks. Mo then came on and got the last two outs to nail down the victory.

What’s interesting is that all six of the Yanks’ runs came on something other than a hit. The team recorded three sac flies, a run-scoring fielder’s choice, a bases-loaded walk and an RBI ground out. The last time NYY had three sac flies in a game was on 9/26/08 during a 19-8 shellacking of the Red Cox.

It is still unclear who they will play in the ALDS, but, obviously, it will be either the Twinkies or Rangers. If the playoffs were to start today, the Yanks would draw the Twins. What’s really baffling is that if NYY gets the Wild Card (which is more than likely as the Rays hold a virtual 1 1/2-game lead with the tie breaker) they would still not get home field advantage despite having a better record than both TEX and MIN.

All photos via LoHud.

Postgame quotes:

Tex:

"This is just the first step. We have to get into the playoffs to win the World Series.No one had a doubt that we were going to get in the dance and have a chance to win another World Series, but it’s nice when it’s official.It’s just the first step. No one in here is satisfied with the season. Everyone knows it’s World Series championship or bust."

A-Rod on CC:

"From the minute he put on the pinstripes he’s been everything we’ve expected and a lot more. He’s been a dream for our franchise."

A-Rod on the PS berth:

"You can’t say you’re too cool for this first step. You have to celebrate the season, but we have our eye on the prize."

Swish Dog on CC:

"He is Cy Young, no doubt man. He’s done a tremendous job as anybody out there."

The Yanks will send Javy to the mound on Wednesday in the rubber match of this set with the Jays. He will be facing Brett Cecil. Finish up strong Yanks, you can still get the division!!

LET’S GO YANKS!!!!