THEY SAID IT

‘I don’t think anyone knew what to expect, including myself.’

— ALEX RODRIGUEZ

New York Yankees designated hitter, after hitting two home runs Friday. The 39-year-old Rodriguez has four home runs and a 1.214 OPS,

ranking just ahead of Miguel Cabrera, after serving a suspension last season for violating baseball’s

drug policy.

— Bill Shaikin

‘There is crying in baseball.’

— MIKE BRYANT

Father of Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant, before his son’s major league debut Friday. The uber-hyped Kris Bryant, who hit nine home runs in 14 games this spring, struck out in each of his first three at-bats Friday and was 0 for 4.

‘The fire is not there.’

— GIANCARLO STANTON

Miami Marlins outfielder, on the team after its 3-8 start. Stanton is 11 games into a $325-million contract with the Marlins; he cannot opt out

until 2020.