I just figured it was going to take another 10 days to get him going, if it's possible. I was planning big-time on him being in the rotation. He won 20 before and has been through [playoff drives].

I've just never understood why everybody tries to get the team in shape the first three or four days. I was in camps when I couldn't even walk the second day, let alone try to do something.

It's supposed to frost. It'll be perfect.

It's just crazy. Generally when you come to the West Coast, four runs is typically enough.

He's got, as they say, electric stuff, I guess. He's got a number of pitches that are all above average. He's a great competitor. He does a lot of things to help himself win games. You know, he's the No. 1 in my book.

If I were on the field, I'd want the manager sticking up for me. Sometimes players are dead wrong, ranting and raving, but you stick up for them. They appreciate that.