Quotes by Joe Girardi

“It would have been a great opportunity. I just wish the timing was different. I dont think major league coaches can be part of this tournament because it could last the whole month of March, when were in spring training.”

“[• Management potential: Joe Girardi , the Yankees bench coach, recently passed up a chance to gain his first managerial experience. Girardi declined the job of leading the Italian team in the World Baseball Classic, the 16-nation tournament in March.] It would have been a great opportunity, ... I just wish the timing was different. I dont think major league coaches can be part of this tournament because it could last the whole month of March, when were in spring training.”

“With our guys, it shouldnt be a problem. Theyre probably too young to shave anyway.”

“That is a concern to me. Weve [organizationally] talked among ourselves to protect these young pitchers. Thats a luxury we have -- a lot of young pitchers. Im going to do everything I can to protect the young pitchers. They have a future with this organization.”

“Hes a very talented offensive player that put up big numbers. He has not had the chance to probably catch enough games to make a fair judgment if he can be an everyday catcher. But the work ethic is there, and thats something that you cannot always teach.”

“Those positions are wide open. We have a veteran in Reese and two young kids. To me, this camp is great because guys will have to push themselves.”

“I want players to look neat and responsible. Maybe its old school. But its kind of neat when people are always clean, and I like it.”

“You have a responsibility of what you look like.”

“I love to teach. You want to see people making progress.”

“This is a great opportunity, and I took it.”