I learned to hit with a broomstick and a ball of tape and I could always get that bat on the ball.

The one unbreakable rule about hitting is this: if a batter hits well with his own particular stance and swing, think twice - or more - before suggesting a change.

Always wanted to be a Major League player. Loved baseball. Followed it. Loved to play. Plus, I could always hit.

I'm a musician. I play harmonica for relaxation. A good way to relax and entertain people. An excellent way to have fun.

What made me sign with the Cardinals? Because they used salesmanship, the personal touch.

A lot of hitters stay away from the plate, some are close up, some are forward, some are back. The thing about hitting is this: You have to know the strike zone. That's the most important thing. Hit strikes and put the bat on the ball.

I started to crouch because that way I could guard the plate better, and I always wanted to hit .300 in the big leagues.