Mike Piazza

Piazza has every opportunity to become smug in his ability and celebrity, but he has never been one to flaunt it. He is known for having high expectations for himself, but only on a personal level, not in comparison to others. Besides Barry Bonds, he has received the most votes for MVP for the National League. With numbers like that, it's no wonder he is feared in the realm of baseball. Todd Pratt, who is Piazza's backup said, "I don't understand why anybody would pitch to him. He's that good," when questioned by Sports Illustrated. But through all the accolades, Piazza remains loyal to the game and realizes what a precious gift that has been handed to him. It is because of his respect for the game that he understands this lesson stating, "This game is humbling. It has a way of keeping your feet on the ground," in an interview with Gregory Schutta with The Record. Piazza remains at the top of his game and looks forward to many more years of playing the game he loves.