So what I did on the field was the essence of what I am. Remember me like that.

Rooting is following, and I don't do that, but I'd like to see the Phillies win because I love Philadelphia.

I was probably in the best shape of any athlete at the time, but you don't get to pass judgment on yourself.

I took it personal. I got slammed quite a bit.

To pick up the paper and read about yourself getting slammed, that doesn't start your day off right.

My major league debut came at old Busch Stadium on Grand Avenue in St. Louis, against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The first pitch I threw was to third baseman Bob Bailey. It was a fastball, low and away. He ripped it for a home run down the left field line. I said, 'Damn, that was a pretty good pitch.

But I would say basically, I would just like to be remembered for what I did on the field.

I trained myself to perform on the field.

The final release point for the fastball is the tips of your fingers.

You've gotta find a way to get out of your own way, so you can progress in life.

It (the slider) just rolls off of your index finger and begins it's spin which will take it down and across the plate (hopefully). Just remember not to twist your elbow or wrist. It should be thrown, with the wrist and grip set, just like your fastball, slightly off center - with the same velocity and intensity.

Pete Rose came over to the Phillies in '79 and he became the catalyst that helped us to put it all together.