It was nice that we got a win. They've had our number all year. We played a good game. We have to come out and do the same thing [Wednesday] and keep the ball rolling.

Actually, Joe was the one who congratulated me, ... And I said: 'For what? I know ain't gotten a hit in a while.' But it's exciting, no doubt about it.

I think I can be a .300 hitter and drive in 100 runs again, definitely. When I had a knee injury (in 2003) I kept playing but I fell into a lot of bad habits. I've worked with Donnie to break those, and I think that hard work paid off last summer. I see no reason why I can't do the things I did before.

The biggest thing as I have gotten older is the calmness that's come over me.

Johnny and I spoke a few times over the last week and I strongly encouraged him to sign with the Yankees. It is good to know that our lineup next year will include a natural leadoff hitter whose presence allows Jeter and A-Rod to return to their preferred places in the batting order. Johnny is a good friend and a great guy to have in the clubhouse. I am very excited about having him as a teammate again.

That kid is going to be good; he reminds me of Rocket. He's young, but that fastball, it's late. I don't care what the radar gun says, it seems like it's on top of you. He's got good stuff.