Quote: "We haven't been playing that well. To win a game and realize what we accomplished is a good feeling." -- Yankees outfielder Paul O'Neill after New York beat the Red Sox, 7-5, to clinch the American League East.

It's a fact: The Yankees have been in first since April 21 and have led by at least 10 games since June 24.

Who's hot: Juan Gonzalez, who has a 20-game hitting streak, the longest current streak in the majors, went 21-for-45 against Kansas City with 26 RBIs this season.

Who's not: The Red Sox are 1-6 in their past seven games. Four of those losses were by one run and another by two.

On deck: Jim Abbott (1-0) makes his second start with the White Sox tonight in a comeback after missing last season. He faces Charles Nagy (13-9) and the Indians in Cleveland.

Pub Date: 9/11/98