Human beings are pampered by the Lord. Their real tests don't come until later in life.

We all wore a 21 patch that one season as a silent tribute to our deceased teammate Roberto.

I don't really feel that I deserve all my applause.

People like us are afraid to leave ball. What else is there to do? When baseball has been your whole life, you can't think about a future without it, so you hang on as long as you can.

Reporters often forget that athletes are human beings.

I always said that when it was time to retire, I would know it, and I would just tip my hat to the crowds.

We devote our entire lives to becoming good ball players. We take batting practice until our hands bleed.

I'm a God-fearing man who worships with my heart and with my life.

I never search for a reason why - I have faith in the Lord's purpose.