What I don't want to do is just play for the sake of playing.

My parents always told me to stay away from trouble. When I moved away from them at a young age, I was fine because they taught me how to do everything right.

I'm just trying to work hard every day, trying to be a better player and one day, to be right there with them, one of those special hitters.

The fans know that I don't give at-bats away.

They pick me [to be tested for steroids] every time. I don't know why. I don't know if it's because I'm a big guy, or what, but all I know is all they are going to find is a lot of rice and beans.

I guess the rules aren't for everyone.

I've always been my own hitting coach.