I’ve managed 25 years, and I can probably count on one hand players that I didn’t really care for, and that’s probably thousands of players that I’ve managed. I think that’s pretty good. I love the players and I always will.

I had 11 years of managerial experience and four years of coaching before I managed a big-league team. To me, it was important, because I learned a lot through trial and error. And it’s tough to have to go through trial and error when you’re a big-league manager.

If anybody says they get used to it, you don’t.

I knew we were in for a long season when we lined up for the national anthem on opening day and one of my players said, ‘Every time I hear that song I have a bad game.’

He represented the Twins, but I think everyone in baseball felt like they were a teammate of Kirby Puckett.

I’m second in doubles – double vodkas, double scotches.

It takes time to get the whole package. Freshmen can’t be seniors.

You’re not always going to be at your best, but it better be the best you’ve got that day.

Momentum is your next day’s pitcher.

You don’t lead by lip service, you lead by example.