I feel very honored to be among those chosen by my peers for this extraordinary recognition.

We are really honored. It means so much more since our peers -- who are at times our rivals -- are the voters. This honor brings responsibility and the challenge to do an even better job in 2006.

I was definitely honored to be chosen, but I just didn't feel ready to be pitching in big games yet. It was a tough decision. I talked to my wife and my mother. I'm not sure I'm ready to be pitching in front of 40,000 to 50,000 people. I don't think I'd be helping Team USA or the Indians if I hurried up (his training schedule) and got hurt.

It's cool to be recognised by your peers.

Every time a gay or lesbian person is chosen as a leader by their non-gay and lesbian peers, I think it's a step forward for our community.

He's very deserving of the recognition he's receiving. To be chosen as one of the three finalists speaks well of the type of player he is and his character.