The Tigers took a first step Sunday. The Athletics failed to take that step for a second straight day. The Tigers clinched their first postseason berth in 19 years with their 11-4 victory over the Royals, while the Athletics failed to clinch the American League West title after suffering a 7-1 setback to the Angels. Detroit held a subdued celebration at the mound after Andrew Miller struck out fellow rookie Angel Sanchez to ensure the Tigers' first playoff appearance since the 1987 team won the AL East crown with a 98-64 record.