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MLB players, managers aim to improve in 2002
A new year is upon us, and it's time to make promises and air those good intentions once again. MLB.com asked a bevy of baseball folks for their New Year's resolutions. Here's what they resolve to do in 2002.
"I want to be a great father to my son. I want to watch my steps, watch what I do, so that I can set a good example for him." -- Desi Relaford, Giants infielder "Usually I don't make resolutions, but with the World Championship this year might be different. Like the rest of the team, the organization and Diamondbacks fans everywhere, I guess I'll resolve to go out and do it again. That season was the most fun I've ever had in baseball. We'll do whatever it takes to get there again." -- Bob Brenly, Diamondbacks manager "Get to the World Series." -- Ben Davis, Mariners catcher "I usually just take it as it goes, man. New Year's is just one of those times that a lot of people like to make resolutions, but I live a pretty clean-cut life anyway. If I gave up some of the things I already do, I won't be able to do anything." -- Matt Lawton, Indians outfielder "I'd like to drop a few pounds and come into camp ready to get the team prepared for a winning season. I guess, in a nutshell, I just want to come in and try and have a more open mind in dealing with people and situations, not just as a manager, but as a person." -- Joe Kerrigan, Red Sox manager "Not to make any New Year's resolutions because I can't keep them." -- Al Leiter, Mets pitcher "To win 90 or more games!" -- Paul Godfrey, Blue Jays president and CEO "I make ones that I have control over. (laughing) No, seriously, I really don't make them, but every year I pray for good health for myself and my family. And of course this includes the team. I like to keep it simple." -- Elrod Hendricks, Orioles coach "This past year was difficult for many people, and my thoughts and prayers are with all those who have suffered. I wish everyone a safe, happy and healthy year in 2002 ... and a great season for the Chicago Cubs." -- Sammy Sosa, Cubs outfielder "My New Year's resolution for 2002 is simple. Try to be a better person, brother, son, husband and pitcher than I was the year before. As far as for experiences, 2001 will be hard to top -- but a World Series ring would do." -- Nelson Figueroa, Phillies pitcher "I just think I always want to be a better person; I always want to be more dedicated. Maybe if everything goes right and we play this year, I'll get into my third season and do a little more charity work. Maybe do a little more around the community if I can." -- Geoff Blum, Expos infielder "To get home from home games before 11:30 at night." -- Jeff Cirillo, Mariners third baseman "Well, I could probably get in better shape, but I've had that one for the last five or six years now, so maybe I need a new one. Part of me says, 'Try to get a little more balance in your life between home and work,' but that doesn't always work out, either." -- Mike Crowley, A's president "Yeah, the same one I always make -- to lose 15 pounds. I want to get back to my playing weight." -- Ken Williams, White Sox general manager "I want to be more organized during the offseason to better prepare for next season, and try to be a better person in general. More than anything, I want to be a better father." -- Mike Cameron, Mariners outfielder "To finish my rehab successfully and get back onto the mound in time for the beginning of the 2002 season. But more important, my resolution is to continue to make my five daughters the happiest, healthiest girls in the world!" -- Doug Brocail, Astros reliever "For the new year I am hoping to and want to be a better person." -- Preston Wilson, Marlins outfielder "My New Year's resolution is to avoid cursing throughout 2002. Check with me after the Rose Bowl." -- Chris DeRuyscher, Royals' game entertainment coordinator and devoted Nebraska fan "New year's Resolutions? I'll wait until New Year's Day to make one." -- Xavier Nady, Padres infielder |
