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

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

Pete Rose came over to the Phillies in '79 and he became the catalyst that helped us to put it all together.

It (the slider) just rolls off of your index finger and begins it's spin which will take it down and across the plate (hopefully). Just remember not to twist your elbow or wrist. It should be thrown, with the wrist and grip set, just like your fastball, slightly off center - with the same velocity and intensity.

I took it personal. I got slammed quite a bit.

(Mike) Schmitty provided what the relief pitchers need most, home runs and great defense. He's the best third baseman that I ever played with, and maybe of all-time. Obvious Hall of Famer, even then. He retired while on top of his game. I thought for sure he was going to hit 600 home runs.

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