Hi everyone. It's great to see you all tracking my HRs here on Weplay and love the Homerun Club comments!

Here's some quick answers to your questions...

What's it been like this year, being the champs and teams gunning for you?

Like it or not winning the World Series means teams look at you a little differently. There's definitely a target on your back.  As far back as going into Spring Training everybody knew what we had accomplished, but right now it's about finishing strong so we're set up well to take a run at repeating. We know what we're capable of.

Hey Ryan! How has your game improved? And how have you done it?

I'm always trying to get better. For me, I went into the offseason with an eye on getting in better shape and my defense wasn't where I wanted it to be. I've always been capable it was just a matter of getting to a consistent basis. So cutting back on errors is one thing, and I think working with Sam (Perlozzo) we were able to get to that point.

Which first basemen's games do you admire?

Growing up it was Mark Grace. And Keith Hernandez didn't miss anything. In the present day one guy, Doug Mientkiewicz, stands out. He's all over the place getting the ball. It's like "How did he get over there?" Of course Albert (Pujols) and DLee (Derek Lee) for a taller guy. Tex (Mark Teixeira) throws that leather around. It's all
about putting in the work and getting to that same position every time. That's the key to first base.

You played in both new stadiums in NY. What did you think of them?

The new Yankee Stadium is huge. It's definitely loud in there. All the tradition the Yankees have and such it was fun to be a part of it. Each one of our games was pretty exciting coming down to the last AB or what not. So loved playing there.

It's always a good time to face the Mets. Both teams know what's at stake and the fans are into it to. It's a good fun rivalry where both bring their "A" game. It's definitely a bigger park that feels new and clean.  When I first go into new parks I try and take in the wholescene. Get a feel for it. Then get used to picking up the ball. After that everything goes back to normal.

I read where you lost some weight. What's your secret?

It all starts with being active. That and you have to want to do it, but the most important thing is what you eat. You can't expect to be an elite athlete. Some people are just blessed and not gain a pound, but I'm far from all of them.

I'd suggest putting some goals together and change up your diet with more fruits, vegetables and lean meats. That was my goal going into Spring Training -- to drop 25-30 pounds - and it feels great.

It's also showing up in the stats. Seven steals is earning me some respect with Jimmy (Rollins) and Shane (Victorino).