So what I did on the field was the essence of what I am. Remember me like that.

I was probably in the best shape of any athlete at the time, but you don't get to pass judgment on yourself.

To pick up the paper and read about yourself getting slammed, that doesn't start your day off right.

You've gotta find a way to get out of your own way, so you can progress in life.

My major league debut came at old Busch Stadium on Grand Avenue in St. Louis, against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The first pitch I threw was to third baseman Bob Bailey. It was a fastball, low and away. He ripped it for a home run down the left field line. I said, 'Damn, that was a pretty good pitch.

That's the past. I don't agree with retrospect.

My major league debut came at old Busch Stadium on Grand Avenue in St. Louis against the Pittsburgh Pirates.