I'm a terrible singer. I feel lucky to play baseball. You can't be gifted in everything.

Balsamic vinaigrette, Tabasco, and giblets. Then let it boil.

Leadership is a role you have to earn in order to be effective.

My mother's the most special person in my life ... I consider her my MVP: Most Valuable Parent.

I'm not a real vocal guy, but sometimes you need to kick someone in the ass.

I have incredible motivation to go out and improve every day.

Some things are meant to be and if it was, you will know it.

I hate the word 'potential'-potential means you haven't gotten it done.

Playing the game was the easy part. The real work was in the preparation.

I want to be the best, and the best work. You have to earn what you get, and you have to work to keep it.

Fear of failure is what fuels me, keeps me on edge and sharp. I'm not as good when I'm comfortable.

Always follow your dreams, don't let anyone tell you that you can't be something.

I believe a champion wins in his mind first, then plays the game, not the other way around.

Every year it gets tougher and tougher. Mentally and physically. That's why you need to train and prepare.

I never take things for granted. I always look to help out me teammates, to win and be better.

I don't play for records.

I learned to play (baseball) on the streets in the Dominican Republic when I was 8 yrs old.

I don't know why people say I'm not supposed to be doing what I'm doing. I'm just trying to do my job. I'm blessed, and I'm glad that I'm blessed.

A lot of people said I could be a good player. I just wanted the opportunity to show it. I just let it happen.