“There's nothing like it. Two years ago we were in it, but we fell out in August. That experience helped us get to where we were last year, and I think last year's experience is going to help us in '06.”
“It does make me a little nervous. I can throw three pitches, miss a couple of spots, and Carl can tell me exactly what I'm doing wrong. The next three pitches will be right where I want them to be.”
“Although I would love to pitch in the inaugural World Baseball Classic and am proud to represent my country, I will not be ready to pitch in a competitive-game environment when play begins on March 7.”
“I'm not going to pitch. I don't feel like I'm ready to pitch in meaningful games this early in the year. I'm honored to be asked, and in different circumstances, I'd love to play.”
“I was definitely honored to be chosen, but I just didn't feel ready to be pitching in big games yet. It was a tough decision. I talked to my wife and my mother. I'm not sure I'm ready to be pitching in front of 40,000 to 50,000 people. I don't think I'd be helping Team USA or the Indians if I hurried up (his training schedule) and got hurt.”
