Alex Rodriguez Player Quotations

I reached the conclusion that if I played in the Classic, I would play for the United States and honor my American citizenship. I appreciate the support and understanding of my fellow Dominican players and friends who aided me in making this decision.

The contract is something I'm really proud of, ... It doesn't bother me at all. I think it's really symbolic of my hard work and what I've done as a player and the unique challenge that I do have and continue to try and harness every year.

There are so many players from so many teams, I think we do have the responsibility to show that we're the greatest country as far as baseball is concerned. We'll lace 'em up and see what happens.

No player should have to go through what I have been dealing with, and I am exhausting all options to ensure not only that I get justice, but that players' contracts and rights are protected through the next round of bargaining.

It is hard to ignore that is reality. But, at the same time, it still comes down to sound baseball decisions, farm systems and then execution on the field by the players. There are a lot of components to that (other) than just saying it is the highest salary.

Not one day goes by when I don't remind myself of how grateful I am for those who came before me over the last 25 years. When I see players like Mike Schmidt and Johnny Bench, I thank them.

I think defence, for the most part, being a balanced player and also saving a lot of runs on the defensive side, I think was a major factor here. To me, defence is foremost. It's always been. The White Sox showed us this year pitching and defense wins to this day.

He is the one special player right now, like Barry Bonds , who can change the game around simply with his batting.

It was one of the saddest days in baseball for me because what better example for anybody who strives to be a great player and a great person.

There's probably 15 or 16 offensive categories, if you want to be a baseball junkie. I may have led in 10 or 12 of them. I think being a balanced player and saving a lot of runs on the defensive side was a major factor. Ortiz is an unbelievable offensive player.

Johnny is absolutely tailor-made for New York. He has a great supporting cast, he's a fantastic player and getting better with age. He's the ingredient that we needed.

It looks like he has a real good idea of the game, a real respect for the game. That's rare for young players to have that type of feel at the plate and for the game. He has an outstanding reputation as a player, and it's well deserved.

The last two times I've been up here my two favorite players of all-time have introduced me, Mr. Keith Hernandez and Mr. Cal Ripken. To the New York fans, thank you very much for making me feel very welcome.