"ASK DON" - 1996

Questions Don Answered On His "Ask Don" Web Site

May 20, 1996 / June 12, 1996 / August 26, 1996 / September 3, 1996 / September 9, 1996 / September 16, 1996 / September 24, 1996 / September 30, 1996 / October 8, 1996 / October 15, 1996 / October 21, 1996 / October 31, 1996 / November 5, 1996 / November 11, 1996 / 1997 / 1998

Answers From May 20, 1996:

John Cerra of Westfield, New Jersey asks:
"Like most, if not all of your fans, I hope that you happy in retirement. But, we are all still wondering...Do you feel that there is something left to be finished, and if so, is there any chance you will be playing again. I would be lying if I said that I look forward to seeing you in another uniform, but we would get used to it quick. (Please, not BOSTON)!"

Don: "I am first and always a Yankee. That will greatly influence my decision."

Mike Litman of "The Lighting Resource" asks:
"Where is Donnie Baseball playing today or is he still a free agent? As a trivia question....Who named Don Mattingly, Donnie Ball?

Don: "That's easy Mike. A good friend of mine, Kirby Puckett, coined that phrase."

Jason Chambliss of Evansville, Indiana asks another question:
"One of my goals is to try and collect at least one of every baseball cards that has your face or name on it. Now, I've been doing this for several years, and still have quite a bit to go. I was wondering if you were aware of any kind of masterlist that I would be able to find that could serve as a kind of checklist, helping me on my quest. This is something I'm sure a lot of your fans would like to know, but I just don't know where to look. Thanks".

Don: "A 'masterlist' of all of my baseball cards to date was published in Beckett Magazine about a year and a half ago. Check with your local magazine shop".
Note: A More Complete List Of Mattingly Cards Is Available Through me...Check out my Mattingly Checklist!

Kevin Berry from AOL asks:
"I am 11 years old and doing a report on you. What are your plans now, do you think you will come back to baseball? Who was your idol when you were growing up?"

Don: "Kevin, right now I am taking life easy. I am enjoying rest and relaxation with my family, I attend horse shows with my wife Kim and my three boys keep me busy going to their baseball games. When I find the time I am trying to improve my golf game and I really enjoy fishing! My idol when I was growing up was Rod Carew. Hope this helps you on your report.

Answers From June 12, 1996:

Damian Barta from Essexl.com asks:
"I have enjoyed watching you play over the years. You are a role model for baseball fans as well as all Americans. If you decide to play next year are there any players you would enjoy playing with, such as Tony Gwynn?"

Don: "Tony Gwynn is a great player and person but individual players are not my first consideration. The pinstripes are in my blood and that would enter into my decision."

Mike Horn from Evansville, Indiana asks:
"Wasn't working the old summer PRC Civic League Youth Baseball program while you were in high school, the hardest job you ever had?"

Don: "Mike, have you ever tried to hit a screwball ball from some of the finest pitchers in the major leagues? Seriously that was one of the hardest, but also one of the most rewarding jobs I had in high school. But officiating basketball games was also a challenge and made me happy that I chose baseball instead!

Ed Burns from Kearney, New Jersey asks:
"I'm not much on questions but I do have one request. Could you find it in your heart to send me an autographed photo? It would be framed and hung with pride in my den. Thank you. Hope to see ya on the field again soon..."

Don: "Ed. your in luck. Check out my web page and you'll find that I am personally signing a picture of myself that was taken in Yankee Stadium. With the vast amount of requests I receive, offering this personally signed photo is the fairest way for all of my fans to have the opportunity to obtain this keepsake if they so desire!"

Answers From August 26, 1996:

Greg Sicari from Manorville, NY asks:
"What does your off-season training regime consist of and how do you plan to spend your time off?"

Don: "Playing ball with my sons is my favorite workout, but I also keep in shape with the weights. As for the time off, I've been attending a lot of horse shows lately along with riding a little. I'm also working hard on improving the golf game and just enjoying my family."

Arin Formanek from Bakersfield, CA writes:
"I am 11 and I am a left-handed 1st baseman. Could you give me some tips on how to be a better 1st baseman?"

Don: "The biggest thing to always do is to work hard on the things your coach tells you to. Another big thing to do is to practice the little things that make you a better player, such as bunting, hitting behind the runners and especially fielding at first."

Susan Russell of Brick, New Jersey asks:
"Why did you pick the number 23?"

Don: "Actually, my first year I wore #46, then the equipment manager suggested I wear a lower number. So, #23 was there and I took it."

David Stout of Bayonne, NJ asks:
"How do you think Joe Torre and the Yankees are doing without you and would you consider becoming a coach or even manager of the Yankees?"

Don: "I'm glad the Yankees are doing well. Joe Torre is a good Manager and there is a lot of great talent on the team. But as for coaching at this point, I would have to say if I do anything again in baseball, it will only be as a player."

Answers From September 3, 1996:

Jason Blasbalg of Boca Raton, FL asks:
"Since I moved to Florida, the only time I could see you play was on TV or at Spring Training. With Inter-league play starting next year, I would love to see you back in pinstripes taking on the Marlins at Joe Robbie Stadium. By the way, what is your take on inter-league play?"

Don: "I think that the inter-league play will increase interest and promote baseball. It is people just like yourself that hopefully, will help bring you out to the ballpark."

Darrin Henderson asks:
"Don, if the Yankees win the World Series this year, do you think you would of let your chance to win the title go by. Also, if you did decide to return to the Yankees this year, would you consider playing the outfield like you did in the minors or would you back up Tino at first?"

Don: "Yes, my chance might go by, but I have realy enjoyed the time off with my family this year and wouldn't trade it. As for the second part of your question, at this time, there really isn't a chance of any of that happening."

Kevin D'Antonio of America Online writes:
"We enjoyed the on-line auction and had a great time. The best part was that we got the Yankee jersey that you wore last year. As for my question, we want to know if you're going to play for your old manager, Buck Showalter when the new team starts to play?"

Don: "Coach Showalter has not asked me as of yet.."

Answers From September 9, 1996:

An America Online user asks:
"I have read in previous interviews that you attribute your hitting style to wiffleball. How true is that?"

Don: "When I was very young, I played wiffleball and stickball everyday. It really teaches you to keep your eye on the ball."

Mark Dorson from America Online asks:
"I hope to see you next year in pinstripes, but in the meantime, since you are playing a lot of golf, what type of clubs are you swinging (woods & irons)?"

Don: "I use the Big Bertha line from Callaway."

Daniel Bertolone from Prodigy asks:
"Don, I was just wondering if your parents ever forced you to play baseball or did you play just because you loved playing the game?"

Don: "Never! I played all sports because I loved it."

Answers From September 16, 1996:

Steve Bryant from Newburgh, IN asks:
"What one thing will have the most influence on your decision to play or not to play baseball again?"

Don: "That's an easy one, my family's opinion is most important. We will make the decision on if I play again, together."

Mickey Hanley of Great Neck, NY writes:
"What are your memories of Mel Allen?"

Don: "Mel was one of the best sports announcers in the game of baseball. His unforgettable love for the game of baseball came through in everything he did. He will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of listening to him"

Daniel Geels writes:
"First of all thanks for being such a role model for the young fans and the old ones too. I was wondering what your rehab consisted of when you had your back problems? You're my all time favorie player and I wanted to design my rehab like yours on my back problems. I miss #23 on first base and hope to see you back soon!"

Don: "Mostly I used water drills in the pool plus many different stretching exercises. The back is a complex thing to work with, so please talk to our doctor before you start any exercise programs."

Paul Fratarcangeli asks:
"While I seem to be hearing little tidbits here and there about a return to baseball, I was just wondering if you still continue to work out in the batting cage and other things to just keep with the game a little. I would like to thank you for the years you spent with the Yanks as you were always a calming influence on what was perhaps one of the most turbulent of teams"

Don: "This summer, my training program has mostly consisted with working out with my boys. With three sons, keeping up with the them is one of the hardest workout programs I've been through, but I have truly enjoyed every minute of it."

Answers From September 24, 1996:

An Internet User asks:
"Donnie, how do you feel about pitchers receiving the MVP award? I think it is ridiculous to give such an award to a player who sees action in about 30 games if he is lucky. I ask you this because you had a sensational season in 1986 only to be robbed of the award. Don't get me wrong, Roger Clemens had an outstanding year, but isn't that why they have a Cy Young award?"

Don: "I don't think they should be considered. A pitcher, if he doesn't miss a start, participates in only 35 games and although very valuable, it's hard for me to justify that with a guy that plays a 150 games."

Mike from America Online asks:
"What is your favorite Don Mattingly baseball card? Also, what card games did you play during rain delays and in the club house?"

Don: "There are so many, it's really hard to choose a favorite card. As for card games, I did not like playing during rain delays, but I really enjoyed playing poker on team flights. It made the time pass quickly."

Jared Miles asks:
"Were you a Yankee fan even before you played in the big leagues? Also, did you play other sports in school?"

Don: "No, I grew up in the midwest and watched the Big Red machine and the Cardinals. As for other sports, yes I played football and basketball. I am very glad I did because the different sports gave me different things I used for baseball."

Henry Hofer from Compuserve asks:
"Don, as a Yankee fan, this season has not been same without you at first. I have seen news clips that you may return to baseball, if not would you ever consider doing Yankee broadcast on tv sometime in the future? Also, the team is in a little skid right now, does this team have what it takes to turn around and win, not only the division, but the series?"

Don: "Sure, I will keep all options open, broadcasting could be fun. You never know, I might even be hosting my own radio show over the internet in the near future. As for the Yankees, yes, they have lots of talent, character and most of all pitching..."

Answers From September 30, 1996:

Matt Kost writes:
"Dear Mr. Mattingly, when you where little, how did you feel when you weren't the best or you weren't picked for the best team?"

Don: "Being the youngest brother, I was always playing with better or bigger players. I truly believe it helped me become a better player."

Janit & Julian from Washington, NJ writes:
"My son, Julian, is 8 years old and has become a major Yankee fan this year. He would like some information on how many RBI's you have and how many times you won the golden glove. I think that Tino is doing a good job, but right about now the Yankees could sure use a captain like you. We are very glad to have found your webpage."

Don: "Tino is an excellent player and he has really helped them out this year. As for my stats, you should be able to find quite a bit about my playing history right here on my webpage. If there is anything else you would like to see, please drop me a line. I am also happy you found our web page."

Dan from the Internet writes:
"Just wondering if you had any baseball cards taken while wearing the number 46?"

Don: "No, all cards show me wearing the number 23."

Marc Graf, Age 13 writes:
"A few months back I mailed you a letter along with a card. Today, I recieved the card with your signature and I appreciate it very much. The autograph on the card did not look identical to most of your other autographs. I just wanted to know if you sign all of your own autographs?"

Don: "Yes Marc, I personally sign all the fan mail and all autographed items listed here on my page. No stamps and no ghost signers."

Answers From October 8, 1996:

Joshua Hofer (Age 12) writes:
"I have a few questions for you. 1) What do you think of the Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter? Do you think he has a shot at Rookie of the Year? 2) Will you ever come back to baseball and what team would you play for if the Yankees did not want you? 3) What if a team wanted to sign you, but you can't play first base. Would you play at another position?"

Don: "Derek has all the tools to be a great player and he learns very quickly. Personally, I believe Derek is the Rookie of the Year. As for me playing, I will definitely keep all my options open for next year and I look at myself as a player, not just a first baseman. I will play anywhere they want me too."

Peter Geller writes:
"If you were asked to manage the team, would you accept? For what it's worth, I think you would be a great manager."

Don: "At this time I'm not ready to manage, but maybe in a few years. I do believe I would be a good manager also."

Sorry for only getting to two letters, but it's been a busy week. I will be getting to many more here by next week.

Answers From October 15, 1996:

Mike Krajewski from earthlink.net asks:
"Don, was it your back problems that made you retire or were there other contributing circumstances? As a true Yankee fan I want you to know that I feel you are one of the TOP 3 Yankees of all time!"

Don: "I just needed to spend some time at home to be with my family. I was tired of being on the road and needed to reload."

Fernando Cheskes from Mexico asks:
"My name is Fernanco Cheskes, a great fan of yours from Mexico and I want to know why you don't want to play now with the Yankees if you spent all your career with this team?"

Don: "It's not that I don't want to but I want to have a chance to play and right now I don't see that opportunity."

Michael Gruen from worldnet asks:
"I am a big Yanks Fan. I would like to know why I didn't see you in any commercials? I also have seen very few commercials of Baseball players, excluding the favorites (Griffey, Palmer). Do you know why?"

Don: "I did do a couple of Coca Cola and a few Nike commercials in '84. I tried to do the ones that were cool and I liked the product, but also wanted people to think baseball when they saw me, not tons of different products. But if the right deal comes along..."

Paul Badeau from AOL asks:
"What kind of fishing do you do? I am 15, I spin and fly fish. Where are the spots you prefer to fish?"

Don: "I do very little, my boys do most of the fishing. Our lake on the farm is a good spot to go to. My boys friend caught a 6 1/2 pound large mouth bass recently."

Answers From October 21, 1996:

Aaron Dalton from Roanoke asks:
"Thank you for the wonderful career and for being a positive role model. If the Yanks win the Series, it will be their 23rd!!! I have two questions regarding the cards of you I have. Is it true you have the best career fielding percentage EVER (.99599)? This sounds silly but I have cards that say you were born in 1961 and 1962. Which is it?"

Don: "1961. That comes from a little practical joke on a N.Y. Post reporter. I hope they win the series and if they do it will still have been the right decision. I don't know on the fielding percentage."

Hitman0187 from AOL asks:
"I once read somewhere that you built your own batting cage in your backyard. I was wondering how much it helped your hitting and how much it cost you??"

Don: "It was great because I was hitting at a local high school and it got to be tough with people there everytime I hit. I don't recall the price, I just remember looking at it as a tool I needed to be successful."

Answers From October 31, 1996:

Sorry for the delay in getting this weeks letters online, I've been hard at work on my new Radio Show here on the Internet. Some of the questions I get through the "Ask Don" area, I will answer on the Show, so it will allow me to better answer some of these questions. Now, for these weeks letters:

Jennie Earl from SUNY Geneseo asks:
"What do you consider the most important thing that comes from the game of baseball?"

Don: "I don't know. I have never given it that much serious thought. I just think that it's a great game!"

Erin from AOL asks:
"I was just wondering how you think Tino has done following in your position? I personally think he is doing a better job than anyone thought he would under the pressure of playing 1st base at Yankee Stadium."

Don: "I think Tino has done a great job both on the field and handling playing in New York."

Joe DePaola from Brewster, NY asks:
"I am 16 years old and I have been a Yankee fan all my life. You were and still are my favorite player and hero. I too, am an avid golfer and I was just wondering what your handicap is or what your average score is? I'd also like to know what you think the Yankees chances are this year to make the Series?"

Don: "I am an 18 handicap and as I'm doing this mail I am watching game 3 of the '96 Series so I'm going to go out on a limb and say excellent!"

John Allen from New York asks:
"Don...We love you here in New York...But I think you would do very well with the St. Louis Cardinals. What are your thoughts about them as a team and about Tony Larussa as a manager?"

Don: "Thanks, I love New York as well. I have a tremendous amount of respect for Tony. And the Cardinals are going in the right direction."

Answers From November 5, 1996:

David Thomasberger asks:
"Who gets your vote this year for CY Young and MVP?"

Don: "American League: MVP Albert Bell * C.Y. Andy Pettite
National League: MVP Ken Caminiti * C.Y. John Smoltz"

Kaltendo from AOL asks:
"Why hasn't anyone ever written a biography about you?"

Don: "I don't know. Maybe I am not interesting or controversial enough."

JoeMoose from Netcom asks:
"I hope the rumors of your return to baseball are not false. I really would love to see #23 roaming the area around firstbase. My question is: What do you remember most about your time spent in the winter leagues? And, more specifically, which teams did you play for and in what years?"

Don: "Thanks. I only played one year in Puerto Rico. In 1983 I played for the 'Cauguas Empanadisa. I also hung out on the beach and played paddle ball." Note: This Was My Question!!!!!!

Answers From November 11, 1996:

B>Gerard Boyle asks:
"Hey Don - will you be making any more guest appearances on the "Simpsons"? ....Okay, the real question. Did you attend any Yankee games at the stadium when you were a kid? And if you did, how did it feel to step on the field the first time?"

Don: "No Yankee games as a kid. I grew up in Indiana and the only professional games I attended were in St. Louis. But the first time I stepped on the field at Yankee Stadium was totally cool!"

Leah Karr from Syracuse University asks:
"Mr. Mattingly, who did you enjoy playing baseball with the most on the New York Yankees?"

Don: "I had lots of great teammates but Mike Pagliarulo is one of my all time favorites."

Best regards to all my fans!

All the questions on this page are copyright 1996 by Don Mattingly, Cool Classifieds Online, & Digicom Consulting. They were all available at one time on Don Mattingly's Official Web Site

Special Thanks To Susan for her help in obtaining all the past "Ask Don's"!

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