I stand by those statements. I think this is a man's game and I feel very strongly about it. And if anybody thinks when I made that comment about women being in the kitchen, and takes it seriously, well, get a sense of humor.

They can't have Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling lose a game.

I didn't cost the Series. I cost a game in the regular season.

I really think this town is ready to embrace this team like they did the one in '86. It's early, but if they keep this going, it's going to be a special season. New Yorkers know when guys are out there busting their butts and playing good baseball. They aren't guys looking to hit the three-run homer in the bottom of the ninth to get the headline.

Everyone has someone they looked up to. Mine was Mickey Mantle. For Alex Rodriguez to idolize me coming up, that makes me feel very good.

It's something that I feel strongly about,