Dear Nick Swisher,

I watched your interview with Mike Francesa today.  I just had to take the time and share the things you said in that interview and express my gratitude and appreaciation.

When asked about how you got so much better defensively, you said that you took a lot of pride in it.  I wish there were a lot more baseball players today out there who have the same idea of playing defense, though we do have our share on this team.  I was a "stopper" in soccer growing up and my coach used to tell me, "Offense wins games.  Defense wins championships."  Taking pride in defense helps you win championships.  Since you won a World Series last year, your increase in pride makes me look even more forward to this coming postseason.

I really appreciate that fact that you and Kevin Long made time during the offseason to work on your swing.  I did find it odd last season that you weren't hitting much at home, especially with the home runs.  I noticed that your batting stance has changed and I've seen those clips of you getting extra batting practice before games.  Also your offseason boxing has seem to taken effect.  Only the best athletes train during the offseason and the most dedicated set goals and follow through with them.  Your swings are a lot better this year; especially at home where we Yankees fans want to see them.

What I also appreciate about you is that you've really soaken in on what it's like to play in New York.  You know it's tough to play in New York.  You know it's not all about individual acheivements.  Most Yankees fans, especially me, don't even think about those awards and achievements until after the final out of the entire season.  It's all about winning with the New York Yankees and you've embraced that.  You're also really quick to point out the achievements of other teammates rather than yourself and that is a level of class I appreciate.

I don't think you could have come to the New York Yankees at a more perfect time.  We came into the 2009 season after a tough 2008 season that fans like to try and forget due to the fact that we did not make the postseason.  We signed players like Mark Teixeira, CC Sabathia, and AJ Burnett which was an uplifter for fans.  When I heard Brian Cashman brought you over, I was overly excited because I knew what kind of attittude you had.  Your spirit and energy has really woken up the clubhouse and relaxed everyone, fans included.

Finally I would like to point out your appreciation of the fans.  The reason why we the fans love you so much is because you love us.  Before the games even start, you are in right field waving to fans and cheering for us.  I've been sitting in the right field bleachers for a long time.  There has always been great energy, and whenever you're acknowledging us, the energy doubles.

We are proud that you are proud.  You are absolutely right when you say you need to earn the pinstripes.  I'll tell you right now....you certainly have earned them!  With your power, pride, and swagger you are officially a New York Yankee.  I hope you're here for a long time if not the rest of your career.  Looking forward to the near future.

Best Wishes,
Kelsey

P.S. I gave you all of my All-Star votes.  You're an All-Star whether or not you're on that team.