I don't want to say he got used to it, but I think he understood this year, with his reduced role, that this is what he should be concentrating on. That doesn't mean he's not valuable.

Earlier this year against this club, he played well. It's something that I think was important for him to do after last year. Right now, I think with all of the criticism he's gotten, that's pretty much behind him. He's certainly a big-game guy.

I think last year I disconnected with him. I think it's important that George and I talk on a regular basis. And I'm the one that really has to make the call because I'm the one that travels here, travels there. He pretty much stays in one place. I plan on doing that on a regular basis.

Every year, there's going to be someone who's going to be a thorn in your side. This year, it's the Devil Rays. You look at their record lately, and it's not too shabby. They've always had talented people.

It was a masterpiece. He's as good as we've seen him early in the year.

There's no question. I can just tell by his demeanor. Even walking around the clubhouse, he's different from last year. I just sense a little more comfort overall.