The three-thousand hitting thing was the first time I let individual pressure get to me. I was uptight about it. When I saw the hit going through, I had a sigh of relief more than anything.

The moment the game (AL Pennant versus the Twins) was over I sprinted for the dugout. The fans were pouring onto the field. If they'd caught me they'd have torn my uniform into shreds for souvenirs.

You never know what's going to happen. Anything can happen there... and often does.

The three-thousand hitting thing was the first time I let individual pressure get to me. I was uptight about it. When I saw the hit going through, I had a sigh of relief more than anything.

You don't always make an out. Sometimes the pitcher gets you out.

I remember I was a scared rookie, hitting .220 after the first three months of my baseball season, and doubting my ability.

Anything less would not have been worthy of me. Anything more would not have been possible.