Pedro Martinez is the man. I think most of us can agree on that. But it's not just what kind of pitcher that he was (or is?) -- it's also the character that he brings to the table. I, for one, will always remember some of his classical quotes ("Wake up the damn Bambino..."), but he's still dishing them out as a Philly:
On Red Sox fans: "I know they don't like the Yankees to win, not even in Nintendo games."
He also said that he still considers himself a Bostonian and that he treasures his relationship with Red Sox fans. Earlier, he joked with reporters that he "wants his props" now and not when he dies.
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On Red Sox fans: "I'm pretty sure that every Boston fan out there can feel proud that I'm going to try and beat the Yankees and I'm going to give just the same effort I always did for them. They're special fans and they will always have my respect."
Pedro also reflected on his legacy as a Major League pitcher, one that will make him a first-ballot Hall of Famer:
"I'm pretty sure my name will be mentioned. I don't know in which way. But maybe after I retire, because normally when you die, people tend to actually give you props about the good things. But that's after you die. So I'm hoping to get it before I die. I don't want to die and hear everybody say, 'Oh, there goes one of the best players ever.' If you're going to give me props, just give them to me right now."
Hey, Pedro. Go out and win game six, buddy. I hope you get another ring. You deserve it.