MLB ALL-STAR GAME

July 7, 1998

Paul O'Neill

PAUL O'NEILL: As soon as I was traded over here, Tartabull was here, playing right field. I played left field for a while. Seemed like about 20 years when we went out there tonight. Jokingly Joe told me to go to left. I asked him if he could tell the pitchers to keep the ball out. I played there. I didn't come in on the ball real well because I wasn't real comfortable. But, as soon as I got it, I had a little momentum going to the plate, basically threw it as hard as I could, it ended up in the right spot.

PAUL O'NEILL: I'm sure it didn't hurt. I mean, I don't know if it has anything to do with it. I haven't played here, so I don't know. You know, anytime you come into a game, only get up at bat a time or two, a play or two, make a play where you can help do something, it makes the game good, and when you win, it was a fun night.

MODERATOR: Couple more questions.

PAUL O'NEILL: Well, like I said, I didn't -- it wasn't a ball that was a sure hit. I'm sure the guy on second had to hold up a little bit. But when I got the ball, I saw that he wasn't around third, so I figured I had to play. I just threw it. It was low enough I think where it kept the guy from going to third. I don't -- it was no big brainstorm. I basically took the ball and threw it as hard as I could.

MODERATOR: A couple more questions. Anything?

PAUL O'NEILL: Very good, thank you.

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