By Jim Scott
DNAinfo Senior Editor
MANHATTAN — CC Sabathia had another strong outing to lead the New York to a 6-1 win over the Toronto Blue Jays on Tuesday, clinching a playoff spot for the Yankees.
New York earned its 15th postseason berth in 16 years. The Yankees have now made the post season every year since 1995, except 2008. The defending World Series champions celebrated after the win, but were quick to point out there is more work ahead of them.
"It’s just a first step," first baseman Mark Teixeira told the Associated Press. "No one in here is satisfied with this season. Everyone knows it’s World Series championship or bust."
The Yankees are still battling it out with the Tampa Bay Rays for the divisional crown in the AL East.
The Rays also clinched a postseason berth Tuesday with a 5-0 win over the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday. Tampa Bay holds a half game lead over New York with five games to play. The Yankees have just four games left on their schedule.
New York is back in the postseason thanks in no small part to another dominant year from Sabathia.
The Yankees ace gave up just one run and three hits while striking out eight batters in 8 1/3 innings of work to earn his AL-leading 21st win of the season.
Sabathia's 21 wins are the most by a Yankees pitcher since Andy Pettitte won 21 in 1996 and 2003.
New York has one more game left against the Blue Jays on Wednesday before heading to Boston Friday to end their season with three games against the Red Sox.