I didn't know I hit that way (.625 with runners in scoring position). Maybe not knowing is my secret. If I chased numbers, maybe I wouldn't have as good results.

When people get placed upon a pedestal - when they start chasing after that person on the pedestal - they become mannequin-like.

I heard that in the United States the level of baseball was the highest in the world. So it was only natural that I would want to go there, as a baseball player.

I've always prided myself in not reveling in past accomplishments and focusing on future achievement, instead. That's been my career motto.

I love baseball, but being here (in the United States), I've been able to play golf every day. I can't play in Japan because every course has caddies, and the caddies all want autographs and don't want to let me golf.

As professionals we have a responsibility of providing a good show for the fans. Getting hits and home runs is what they want to see.

I want to be the first player to show what Japanese batters can do in the major league.