People expect you to play your best, so I go through a routine to prepare myself so that I know I'm physically and mentally ready - prepared for the game.

You know it as soon as you walk in Yankee Stadium. The electricity is there every time, every day.

My inspiration was the game itself, not any individual player in it.

If it was in my control, Id still be wearing a Red Sox uniform, because its the place I know, I love. All of those fans, Ill always remember. But Im also going to another great place. Im going to a phenomenal city with great tradition as well, phenomenal fans, great organization.

Get an education because no one can take that away from you.

All players are their own worst critics. We are harder on ourselves than anyone else is.

That's basically what I'm doing when I'm tapping them - getting my toes to the end of my shoes.