Here are a few excerpts from the interview (Click here to read it in it's entirety):
Q: Since you decided to continue your recovery at home in Oklahoma, what would your message be to Yankees fans on Opening Day?
A: The message is I'm sorry I can't be there. I'd love to be there and be part of the ceremony like I have been for so many years. I'm just not as strong as I was last year.
Q: You'll be missed.
A: I won't be missed more than what I'm going to be missing myself. It's been many years since I missed Opening Day. I'll be there next year for sure.
Q: You'll watch this one from home?
A: I'll definitely be watching.
Q: You like this Yankees team?
A: I think it's very interesting, especially with the young pitchers. I'm very excited about that. It can be a great year for the Yankees if those kids are ready to go, which I think they are.
Q: First time you saw Yankee Stadium?
A: I just was mind-boggled by how big it was when I walked out on the field. I thought to myself, "Oh my goodness, how am I ever gonna catch a fly ball in this place?"
Q: Toughest pitcher?
A: Mickey Lolich.
Q: Funniest teammate?
A: Sparky Lyle.
Q: You sang with Willie Nelson?
A: It was terrific for me. I'm not sure what it was like for anybody else (chuckles).
Q: Three dinner guests?
A: Jesus Christ ... I don't need a conversation with anybody else (chuckles).
Q: Favorite meal?
A: Pinto beans, cornbread, and okra.
Q: Favorite singer?
A: Ray Charles.
Q: Favorite actor?
A: Jack Nicholson.
Q: Favorite actress?
A: Julia Roberts.
Q: You have a book coming out: "Yankee For Life: My 40-Year Journey in Pinstripes."
A: I feel so fortunate to have been able to be a part of that championship tradition for so many years. ... If you're gonna be in baseball, you might as well be with the greatest. ... If you were drawing up a script, how would you draw it up any better?
Q: Favorite movie?
A: "Pride of the Yankees."
