I'm careful not to give into theatrics when times are tough, I don't like it when somebody gives into outside pressure and puts on a show for others.
Tony La RussaThe thing I learned when I was playing was that your best way of winning was to make it difficult for the other team to score in the last three innings.
Tony La RussaPressure comes when someone calls on you to perform a task for which you are unprepared.
Tony La RussaI'm very distressed that the report was leaked early so that the initial headline said 'dismissed, fired.' That's 180 degrees from the arrangement we have potentially.
Tony La RussaIt's like most anything. If you want to be a loser, there's always a way to dwell on the negative. If you want to win, there's always a way to think positively.
Tony La RussaBeing involved in competition is a privilege and an opportunity. Seek to make the most of that opportunity by pushing yourself to the limit of your abilities. When it is over, you will have earned the respect of your opponents, your coaches, and yourself.
Tony La RussaWe never quit trying. I know that's kind of corny, but the fact is we never quit trying. The dugout was alive even when we were behind. And sometimes it works.
Tony La RussaTo me, there is no more conscientious umpire in the Major Leagues than Jim Joyce. He gives you a hellacious effort every time.
Tony La RussaEven when you have three strikes, you're still not out. There is always something else you can do.
Tony La RussaThe best way to win is to play well early or late in the game. The middle part tends to take care of itself.
Tony La RussaJust because you're down to your last strike, you're not out yet. You can always do more. You'll always have more at-bats to take. That's true in baseball, in rescuing animals, and in life generally.
Tony La RussaToughest thing for me as a young manager is that a lot of my players saw me play. They know how bad I was.
Tony La RussaI'm a great believer in the character of the club. To me, character has a lot to do with how you compete. That creates urgency and toughness. That elevates the talent that you have.
Tony La Russa