Playing Seattle is tough enough, but I started coming down with something and the trainers think it might be strep throat. I really felt it coming on last night and started getting pumped up with fluids, mostly Gatorade, all last night and today. The trainers definitely get an assist for getting me ready to play. It was a big game and I was thrilled to get the ball. Scioscia gave me the ball on opening day and I've been taking my turn every fifth day. I'm thankful that my spot came up tonight and that I was able to set the tone. The key for me tonight was overcoming the feelings of being sick and getting into a groove. The two-seamer was working well tonight and the early runs let me settle in and maintain the lead. But as big as tonight was tomorrow is even bigger, especially this time of year. We need to keep it going and keep fighting.