Every time we play him in the last two-three innings of a game, we're pushing him. It wouldn't be a bad idea for him not to play nine too often.

We have been really concerned the whole second half that a stretch of bad play was right in front of us. That concern has kept us pushing, and we've been able to avoid it. So I don't want to lose that concern, even though we're starting to get healthy.

That would be unique. You play the schedule, however it works. They've played us very well, so I'm not going to go in there and expect anything but another tough series.

Someone told me a long time ago a good test in situations like this, ... You ask the guy, 'If this was your free agent year, when could you play?'

It was his first time, and he's been so critical for us. That was a really memorable moment right there. He made a little speech, and that's a keeper. It's an extra-special day.

To me, there is no more conscientious umpire in the Major Leagues than Jim Joyce. He gives you a hellacious effort every time.