It all seems surreal, ... It was a long, tough road, but I learned a lot of valuable lessons along the way. I struggled and hit a lot of obstacles in the road, but I think those times only made me a stronger person.

I really haven't found my rhythm out there. It's a matter of continuing to (get on base) and if I steal some bases, that will give me some confidence and get back on track.

It wasn't real hard to make a decision. It's been nagging on me for quite some time now and it got to the point where I can't continue on. I have probably been running 60 to 70 percent so it's matter of getting in there and getting some treatment on it and gaining some strength back.

As soon as it came off my bat, I was thinking at the very least to get to third base. Then, I saw (first-base coach) Tim Raines throw his hands up.

I can't put it into words. It's really an honor, no doubt.

I don't think anybody in the ballpark was thinking about me hitting the ball out of the ballpark.