I always think I can compete and I have at the major-league level. Whether I had the opportunities or not I always felt I could. There's always scenarios that take place that prevent you from doing that, and I'm not saying I always took advantage of the chances.

I think there'll be a few at-bats but it's strictly pitching. They've given me every indication that I'll have a chance to make the big-league club.

I guess since I left Carroll and played college ball and pro ball, and still playing pro ball, there's not too many people in South Texas or in Corpus who can say that.

What's funny about it is I haven't even thought about it because I've been busy with the new job. I'm sure I'm going to miss it because it's been my life so long. But I'm not taking it hard. I'm OK with it.

I wanted to pursue other business opportunities and spend time with my family. I've been playing a long time.