The Yankees became the first team to clinch a playoff berth on Tuesday night. New York actually clinched the berth prior to their win over the Angels, when the Rangers fell to the Athletics. The team wasn't overly excited about the accomplishment because they have higher aspirations. "I wish we could be a bit happier, but we're still out there trying to win," Johnny Damon told the Associated Press. "We didn't want to back into the playoffs, though. It's good that we sealed our own fate." The Yankees have a six-game lead over the Red Sox in the AL East and a 5 1/2-game edge over the Angels for the best record in the AL. "The division is very important to us," said Mark Teixeira. "You don't see any champagne tonight, but hopefully in a couple of days you will."