A tough ending

Thanks for all the memories and good luck!

Barry - Sorry that the season didn't end the way you (and all the fans) would have liked. But you guys got further than many had predicted and like you said, you came a long way from opening day. Wherever you play next season, this fan will cheer you on.

I'm proud you guys got this far. Loved watching the team and hope to see you back next year.
Krista

Well Barry, I've been posting just about everyday here. A big thank you for letting us in on what is going on with the thoughts and spirit of the team thru such an explosive time. We will miss all of you in the off season! Thank God I've recorded games that I can watch in front of the woodstove on a rainy winter night when I'm wishing I could have a fix of the A's playing ball. Everyone on the team is such a huge part of where you came this year. No one can say it was one or two stars... it was the team all the way. On a personal note... I'm all for Ron Washington for Manager next year. It would be an enormous loss if he went to another team and we lost out on his wisdom, support of the players and player confidence. He would be a huge shot in the arm for next year. Macha has had his chance. I'm not down on him, just think if it was a choice between the two, Washington would win hands down. I hope you will be back with us next year... if not, I wish you the very best of luck! I think next time around and the team is in the post season.. put the ear plugs in when it comes to the media. Be yourselves... you swept the Twins at home for Gods sake! You had the power going with you and somehow it slipped with all the media hype. Trust the force!!!! I've said what I wanted, to all the A's ... you will be in our hearts and minds until spring training. Here's to seeing the bulk of you back next season!!!!!!!!!
Susan in Castro Valley

No redemtion needed,that's baseball.You know if it was a regular season game on your next start you'd be lights out.Only your next start won't be for 6 months.Try not to dwell to long on it. I'm sure we'll see you at many more ALL-STAR GAMES I'm guessing with your talent and durability you'll be around for another 17 years.Thank you for your years with Oakland it was a blast!

It was definetly a year for you to be proud. I dont know if you ran into a better team, but you ran into a hotter team. Your team does great with limited payroll(compared to lots of other teams with higher payrolls who cant ever sniff the playoffs) I know this because I am a Phillies fan. They could use a guy like you, a true ace.(hint hint) Anyway, congrats on a great season and wherever you play next year I wish you the best. Take care and God bless!

Barry, just wanted to say how much I appreciate you - on and off the field, you're the best. I'm sorry that the series didn't go in the A's favor- but this season was amazing, you played your hearts out. The A's gave it a great run, you and the team made us proud! Thanks for all the great memories, and for being there for the fans- you're always gracious. Hope to see you pitching in green and gold next year. Wherever you go, I'll always be cheering for you.

Barry,
Though today didn't turn out as plan, we all need to think of all the positive things that happened this season. It was full of thrills and excitement. Whether you stay in Oakland or go to another team, I'll contintue suppporting you. Continue being the laid back, down to earth guy you are and I can't wait to see your infamous curveball in the 2007 season. Thank you for a great season. Go A's!!! You are all World Champs to me!

Love,

Patricia

Hey Barry It was a pleasure watching you mature as a pitcher in Oakland. Thanks for the memories and best of luck where ever you may find yourself next year.

Barry,
Thank you for posting. I am sure it was something that was hard for you to do considering the results of today's game. I am disappointed too, because I really wanted to see you be able to go to the World Series. I believe you will someday, but I wanted it to be while you were still with the A's.

I, too, am sad when the year ends for the same reason you are, saying good-bye to teammates who might not return. I know it's different for me, because I have never met any of them (well, I did meet Swisher, he was nice), but it's still sad. I have been watching you all year, driving all my friends crazy "talking about the A's," and cheering you guys on the whole season.

I am so proud of the team! No, you did not make it to the World Series, but you accomplished so much during the year. I am so proud to be an A's fan. Also, if you had to lose, I am just glad it was not to the Yankee's or Angels! Haha!

It was sad reading your last paragraph. I hope you return, but I can also understand why you might like to weigh other options. It's nice that you were willing to blog about this series. Whatever you do, I wish you the best. You know, even though Mulder and Hudson are gone, I still keep an eye out for them. Maybe Mulder's new team will go all the way this year! Wherever you go, you'll be watched to. Just know that even though you might wear a different jersey, I'll always think of you as an A's player.

God bless! It was a wonderful, exciting season! Thank the guys for that!

Thank you Barry, not for just this year and being the man but for being an Oakland Athletic. You have made me from just an Oakland fan to an all out FAN. You have a lot of class and a lot of quirkyness that makes everyone happy you are an A's. If you come back next season, Great. If you don't I want you to know that you always can come back as many times as you want like Ricky Henderson and Reggie Jackson. lol!

Ok, now i'm REALLY gonna cry :'(

I'm trying to tell myself not to feel so bad but I can't help it.

...I really wanted this team to win & not just because i'm a fan but mostly because of the personality of this team.The passion & the heart that each player has shown.

...If ANY team deserved to go & win the World series it's you guys.

...and then , on top of everything else, It's sad to think you may not be back.

I just don't know what else to say right now...Maybe tomorrow, when I don't have this feeling in my stomach i'll be able to put things in a better perspective,but as for now, I think I need a tylenol :/

(((hugs)))

God Bless & Love Ya Much~

~Lisa

Barry,
It's been another amazing year for us A's fans.You guys have so much to be proud of.

I can't even begin to wrap my brain around the fact that you may not be back with Oakland next year.You will be greatly missed.Not only are you an awesome pitcher but a real class act.Keep up your good work with Strike Outs for Troops.Best of luck with all the future holds.

xoxo

Jamie

Barry,
It made me incredibly sad to see the A's lose today! I screamed and cheered my heart out for every game.

You guys did great this year! I know that a lot of things didn't go the way that the team may have wanted in this ALCS but you played better than so many teams to even make it to the ALCS!

It made me want to cry to watch the last game, thinking that possibly this was the end of your season as an A's player. I hope that isn't the case. I hope with all my heart you come back to play with the A's for many years to come... If, for some sad reason, you decide to leave the A's... DON'T GO TO THE YANKEES even if they offer lots of money! They are an evil team! Well, not really, but I can't stand them... If you leave, maybe you could play for an NL league like the Braves. But whatever you do, I will always be a fan of you!

Anyway, my heart goes out to the whole A's team. I hope that you can get it off of your mind soon and have an enjoyable off season!

Love and Prayers,

Eleanor

Thanks for the great year, Barry. And thanks for reminding me of your amazing start against the Twins and Santana. We as fans really enjoyed watching this A's team win the division and then sweep the ALDS.

Hi Barry,
Haven't we all relished the experience of having you on our team:) Perhaps, by some miracle, you'll find your way back to Oakland some day. Until then, see you around town and at next year's All Star Game right here in SF!

P.S.

Promise to wear my Zito jersey to any game you pitch in Oakland or SF...also, my roommate and I are issuing you a key to our place so that you can come over and surf when you want (we live at the beach).

Ah Honey I know your going to hear this a lot but you guys gave it all and there is nothing you cant do about it now. Just look back an remember the good times with the team and never forget you guys did everything possible to win. I really hope you are reading this because I personally want to thank you for the great memories you gave us. Also if your ever in Chicago and want to see the city just email me i'll be happy to show you around. :-) Finally Barry I want to say how much I respect you for the way you play the game. You give 100% to all your games and that is good to see. Well Barry I cant wait to see what happens next season. Have a great off season with LUV
~*~CRYSTAL~*~

It would have been great to see the A's move on, but all of you have provided an *amazing* post-season to watch. Sweeping for the ALDS was a huge thing; it was a great year for you as well.
So don't beat yourself up for anything, you really shouldn't. Look how much your fans praise and love you. We are all truly proud of you.

We'll see you in '07, and continue to support you, no matter what uniform you may be in.

And Barry, thank YOU for everything. =)

--Alvina

Hey Barry, I've really enjoyed reading your blog. I'm sorry the A's weren't able to make it to the big show, but I'm sure you've heard it's the journey not the destination. ;)

Like you said in your blog, you have a lot of great memories to take with you after this season. And isn't that what life's all about? Friendship, doing something that you love, getting better at your craft, being challenged etc...? I know it's painful now, but I think you and the A's have a lot to be proud of.

I'm a Padres fan (with the A's being my other favorite team), but I've been following your career since I found out you follow Science of Mind teachings. I thought that was really cool, as I don't meet that many people who have heard of that particular philosophy (especially ones in the public eye). Plus, I used to live by Randy Jones house, but that's just a weird, random coincidence. :P

Anyways, best of luck to you wherever you end up next season! Have a great offseason! Take care!

Z,
The Post Season means the best of the best. You and the Oakland Athletics made it to the Final Four...WOW!!! What a triumph for all in the organization. Z, I hope you follow your heart and do what you need to do as far as where you sign. I have learned from baseball that change happens, and positives often occur as a result of this change, meaning trade/free agency/whatever. But...I also know people are where they feel they need to be, and I'm hoping you think of Oakland first. Have a terrific off-season. Be well, breath softly.

Man Z, you're an awesome writer . . . you ought to write a book. Thanks for an incredible season - you don't know how big a monkey you knocked off the back of A's fans when you knocked off the Twins in the ALDS. Unfortunately, you guys ran into a freight train that's stoppin' for no one - you may need to give Mark M. a pep talk over there in St. Louis if the Cards get to the WS. Anyway, thanks again for a memorable season!

Look at the bright side - you still have child bearing hips.

http://azdiamondhacks.mlblogs.com/

Barry--

You're a real class act in the game, and as an avid A's fan, I deeply appreciate the positive impact you've had on the young(er) pitchers and the leadership you've shown in the clubhouse. Although the ALCS didn't turn out like we'd hoped, we can be extremely proud of the 2006 Oakland Athletics for making it this far, amid the adversity this year. Best wishes to you this offseason and I'll always remember you coming up big so many times throughout your career here. Thanks for giving us this insight into your thoughts throughout the playoffs.

The team won't be the same without you. Being an A's fan can be so bitter sweet.
Best wishes and warmest regards to you.

It will be hard not seeing you at the Coliseum as an Athletic if you leave and watching an A's Game where you arent part of the rotation is going to be tough for me to watch.

Thanks dude 4 all the memories. You've been my favorite pitcher since 2000 no joke. I was histatic when you won the Cy Young in 02, and I was at the Colloseum on Opening Night 03 when you received the award. I never gave up on you amongst the people I knew in 04 when you had a tough year. I wish you all the luck in your future and keep it real man. You had a great year man. Thanks for the increadible entertainment over the years.

I'm not gonna lie...tonight was pretty rough. It ***** that we lost but overall we need to be happy we made it this far and we did have an amazing year overall. This might sound crazy but I was even more sad knowing there is a good chance that Zito and who knows who else will not be with us next year. I have been an A's fan my whole life, gone to spring training and feel like the A's are apart of my family, but this years team was so different. There was a special bond I think all the fans felt for this team. I am already excited for next season. I hope Zito will be with us but if not Zeet, know you will always been loved by the oakland fans, and you contributed to this team a lot. Hold your head high and thanks for taking time to write this to us. Lets Go OAKLAND!!

Thank YOU Barry for all that you've done. I didn't even watch baseball until I saw you on the show "Teammates" and that's when I became a fan of yours, as well as the game. I wish you the best of luck next year. I'll always be a fan of yours and I can't wait to see what'll happen in this next stage of your career.
~Jennifer

Barry---

I know it's a disappointing loss and I understand the pain. But when you get your emotions into control and your life back into motion, I hope you look back on the season and smile, for what a season it was. I'm so proud of you guys for getting as far as you did, for surviving so long, for winning so much when everyone said you should be losing.

I had a chance to meet you guys this year, finally, when you came to Colorado in June. I don't know if you'd remember me (I highly doubt it!) but I asked you about the effects of high altitude and if you noticed it at all. I gave Swisher a card that said "Shoot for the moon --- even if you miss, you'll land among the stars!" and a message for you all from me inside, but I don't know if he read it or not. I don't think it really matters, just that he had it. I was really impressed with all of you and your approachability - no snobby players at all. I really, really enjoyed watching you play and getting a chance to talk to you.

Like I said, I know you're disappointed, but Barry, you had a season to remember and I hope you do. I really hope you remain with the A's, but if you don't, I will still always think of you in the proud green and gold.

I have often told you to take my luck and positive energy, and I'll say it again, because you need it now for the end of the season and saying goodbye. Take it for the offseason and use it for spring training. I hope it does you well.

Love,

Gillian

www.circus-girl.blogspot.com

thanks for a great season! good luck wherever you end up next year Barry.

Barry,
Thanks for all the inside info and thoughts durring this great post season run. Sweeping the Twins was great to finaly get over the ALDS hump. It was very hard to watch it end like it did today. Although down 3-0 comming in to today's game, I had a strong feeling of history being made. No doubt it was still great to watch. It would be amazing to see you back with the A's next year, as you have done so much for the team over the years. No matter what happens, you have a life long fan in me... and I'm sure every A's fan can say the same. Have a good off season and thanks again for all the memories. If you end up somewhere else (which we should do anything to make that not happen) I will see you in S.F. for the All-star game. Maybe you will end up back in Oakland down the road if you have to leave now. Thanks for being a MLB player that people can really look up to. God bless and good luck to you, Barry.

Daniel

Hey Barry. It's been a rough series and all of you worked really hard to get to the point were you guys were at. And for that you guys should reflect and praise each other even though its been tough. We're all not perfect and if we were the world would be seriously messed up...But anyways I enjoyed reading your blog you should write more of these frequently. They're fun..lol Well were ever you go next year good luck. But it would be cool if you came here in boston. (Please don't go to the Yankees) But im not going to say any more. It's been fun.
peace and luv...

Hey Barry! I don't know if you actually read these, or if we're just writing them to each other, butI want to say a few things from my heart, in hopes of the possiblity that you may see this. First I want to comment on your status with the A's. I know baseball has become more of a business, then game, which is completely sad. But us A's fan have seen every good player we have, come and go. As soon as they get good, we can't afford them, so let's get rid of them for players who are good, but don't match up to what just left. You have found your way into the hearts of all A's fans and you are the ace of the staff. Someone, who shows his appreciation to the fans. We need you here in Oakland!!!! Not just for your pitching (although that too), but because of what you mean to all of us here. Who cares about being the highest paid, you're still getting paid an insane amount of money to play a sport that you love. I have to pay to play softball, but that doesn't stop me.
My second comment is on the season. I've been with the team for 14 years, through the good, the bad, and the ugly. Even when I've been in college in S. CA for the last 8 years, I came to every game in Anaheim and got threatened, peanuts thrown at me, etc for cheering for you guys. I went home crying after I spent the entire weekend hoping to watch you clinch vs. Anaheim, but washed it away when I was there to watch you win the ALDS. But, watching you guys in the ALCS, it was like none of you really cared. You could see it on your faces. The smiles were gone, the excitment vanished...it was like you guys felt like you were overmatched. The difference in this series is that Detroit wanted it more then you guys. Pitching ******, defense ******, hitting ******. What we saw in the ALDS, wasn't seen in the ALCS. As a die hard fan, I believe in the A's, but I also believe that the team will never reach their highest potential, until they believe it themselves and what they could do. If everyone pitched as they capable of, everyone hit at their career numbers, and the same players that are hurt all year, every year find a way to stay healthy....we have ourselves a world series title. It breaks my heart to see the team just give up....we never did!!!!!

I wish you the best in your journies, and I hope to see you back in an A's uniform for several more years! Cheers!

God Bless,

Sandi

Barry,
i just want to let you know how much Oakland loves you, and how unbelievable sad it will be next year if you dont come back. Chavez will be the last remaining player of those wonderful 2001 A's.

You played a great season though and no one can hold anything against you because you helped the A's finally pass on to the ALCS. Thank You soooo much for keeping us updated during the playoffs, because you didnt have to, but you did it so thank you very much. Another thing, please Barry if you could try and stay in Oakland like Chavez did that would be amazing! i know those millions of $ are hard to resist, but please dont go to NY!!!!! Once again Oakland loves you, thank you for bringing so much to the game and thank you for always being a fantastic person to your fans, every time i saw you, you always had a smile on your face and you were always nice to the fans.

-Concepcion Solis

Barry Zito, you guys had an outstanding year. Please hold your heads up high. We really did have our chances this series, but the Tigers were no joke. They've got it right now. It looks like it's their turn. We love you Barry and we definitely respect you. I also miss Hudson and Mulder... Who knows maybe you'll end up with on of them again. You will be sorely missed. Your not even gone, but we miss you already. Remember the A's!!!! Go Barry!!! Go A's!!!!!!

I was sort of numb over the outcome of the series until I read this. Thank you very much, Barry Zito, for making me cry (don't feel bad about that; it was bound to happen sometime tonight).

Be proud of the effort you put forth all year. This was the first season I actually followed baseball from Spring Training all the way through, and I was surprised to find other A's fans in the Tampa area who were cheering just as loud and as hard as I did. I'm sure Monday will bring hugs and tears at work (even from the men).

Probably the best time I had watching you guys all year was when you were playing out here against the Devil Rays in September. I finally got to see you pitch. I got to meet a couple of your teammates (and managed to give Swisher a hard time for getting that grand slam when I was stuck at work and couldn't see it). I remember exchanging frantic text messages with a friend sitting in another section when Street walked by and I could swear I saw him glowing. Probably the best part of the day was asking the Devil Rays fan next to me to let me concentrate on watching the game; you were actually pitching right then. I was trying to watch you work and he kept asking me questions about the local boys and I had to explain as nicely as I could that I only visited the Trop a couple of times a year at most. He seemed put out, but I didn't care because I got to see my team win that afternoon.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart (the one that, until 2006, only really had room for hockey), for this year. It was a **** of a ride and I'll be spending my winter in the metaphorical line to go again.

On a side note, I'm deeply grateful to you for starting Strikeouts for Troops. My brother's over in Afghanistan right now and it means a lot to me to know that you guys are thinking of people like him. It shows remarkable class and if anyone ever accuses you otherwise, feel free to quote me on it.

Much love and peace to you and the guys, and thank you again. Consider yourself the proud owner of a fan for life.

Barry- Thanks to you and all the guys on the team for the great season, it's too bad it didn't turn out differently. I know I speak for all A's fans when I say we want to see you in the green and gold next year. I hope that the suits can work it all out to make it happen. If you're not in Oakland next year, I'll always respect you and follow your career for the incredible athlete that you are and the quality guy you are off the field.
Best regards,

Cam

Thank you Barry for taking the time to write this blog on MLB.com....you've done an outstanding job, and I loved reading it! This series wasn't how any of us thought it would go, but it happens...the season was not a failure though...it was a GREAT year! It saddens me just thinking of you having to go, but at the same time, I think you've earned the chance of a lifetime...and as a fan of Barry Zito, I'm happy for you...you will find out just what everyone thinks you should be paid and how many teams want you! If it were possible for you to stay in Oakland, I know you would...but we know that's an option that probably isn't a possibility. Wherever you pitch and whoever you play for, I wish nothing but the best for you and your career. Thanks Barry for all the great years...hope there's many more to come...

I have been a loyal A's fan for years. We even go to Spring Training to get the season started out right. I can't imagine the A's without you! The team seems to be more like family then just teammates. Is there anyway you can stay with the team? I think of Michael Jordan giving up a bigger salary just to remain on the Bulls. Sometimes staying with and helping out "family" is the most important thing. We love you, Barry, and wish you could stay an A!

Barry - thank you for doing so much for this organization... all I really have to say is that I hope you can do what so many players in the past haven't been able to do: resist the temptation of money from clubs with a higher payroll *cough* Yankees. The fans would love you back and I know you are the type of person who would be able to see that you could take the same payout as your 2006 salary and live very comfortably, while staying with a team with such a great collegiate-esque atmosphere. Please stick around Barry, you've been my hero since you started pitching for the A's when I was 12.

www.myspace.com/element94

You gave the A's a good season Barry and I thank you. You will be missed and I know that I personally will follow your career no matter where you end up, you have an amazing Curveball(when you get an umpire that knows what a Curve actually looks like ;) LoL. Good luck on the rest of your career and thank you for giving it your all.

Barry We Are Proud Of You Guys For Coming This Far We Will Always Have Lots Of Love And Support For You Guys We Are All In This Together You Guys Aren't Alone This Has Been An Awsome Season With Lots Of Fond Memories Barry This Goes To You No Matter What Happens If You Do Leave Us Always Remember Just How Much You Meant To Us How Much All Your Fans Love You It Will Be Really Hard For All Of Us To See You Go You Will Always Be In Our Hearts Love Ya Lots Barry!!!

Your LF Bleacher Guest Service Team Member

Tina

B.T.W. Now that the season is over for us, is it ok to cheer for the Raiders now? I'm a big time A's fan and a big time Raider fan, but as "BAD" as the Raiders are, I think I'll just cheer for them to go 0-16!!! That ought to teach em!! @!*@$! Raiders!
Just thought I would lighten the mood and remind us Oakland fans how nice it is to "JUST WIN BABY" oh unless your the Raiders!! 0-16 !!!! Now that's what I'm talking about!!! Go A's!!! Don't go Raiders!!! (This year only please)

Be old school, Barry, and stay here. You can make money all sorts of ways through investments, especially with the wad you're surely sitting on right now. Just stay in Oakland. No city's gonna love you like we do, and this team, especially with you in the rotation, has EXCELLENT chances next year. You all have gotten over one hump and are now even more bitter about losing in the ALCS.
So please, Barry, stay, invest and win while playing for the Mighty A's.

If not, thanks for the memories. You're a class act and a **** of a pitcher. I'll always be a Zito fan.

Thanks Barry for such a terrific season. It makes me so proud to support a franchise with the carefree attitude you and the team represent. I love reading about the antics of the team and you are its poster boy.

Good luck wherever you end up(hopefully with the A's) and i too will be lifelong barry zito fan,even if it isnt in the green and gold.

The biggest A's fan in Australia, Tim

Hey,
I am amazed at how many times you guys loaded up your offense, and almost scored. You all did better than playoffs past. Maybe you should a stick around bit longer, do a little team organization, and you all will get there next year. The Tigers were not better, just hungrier. The A's days will come....sooner than later-as soon as they realize and execute their immense talent! I know it! I am not even living in Oakland anymore (stuck up in Hockey crazed Alaska) but the A's will always be my favorite team. Thanks Barry for your leadership!!

You will always be an Oakland A in all of our hearts Barry. Don't let Chavy be the only A's veteran! Us A's fans can't take another heart break. But whatever happens, you know we will support you and you will always get a standing-o at the coliseum (except if you go to New York...j/k). Play it for the love Barry. Not the money.

Hey Barry,
You've been amazing this year. Taking the role as leader of the group and guiding us to the playoffs. Sure you had one bad start, Opening Day, but you bounced back and performed spectacularly throughout this season. I hope Billy does some crazy thing and resigns you somehow. I, as well as others, will truely miss you. I'm super goina miss seeing that wicked curveball of yours personally.

Also, tell Huston to keep his head up. You're his big bro and he needs to know we still support him.

Hey Barry,

You guys have had an incredible year. I had a lot of fun following you guys. All of you guys should be proud of this entire year. You guys fought hard, and gave it everything you had.

I am still hoping that you can stay in Oakland, but where ever you end up playing, you'll still be my favorite player.

Thanks Barry.

All of You, Thank You.

-gar

ohh god zito. i'm crying so hard right now. you guys were awesome this season and made me incredibly proud. that said....I WOULD GIVE ANYTHING....ANYTHING.... for you to stick with us and not leave. i am fully aware that you need the least amount of pressure put on you right now, but let me tell you about 75% of the reason i am crying myself to sleep right now is because i may never see you pitch in an a's uniform again. i love you all, and to see one of you leave, god, especially YOU zito--who i cried and was speechless after you signed my first a's hat, would depress me to death.
again, this season was soooo great, and i love you all so much.

love,

veronica<3

I saved the Zito/Santana game on my tivo. Classic Z.
Thanks for the eloquent blogs. Now it's time for you to get some San O or Little Dume. Or C Street in Ventura. A nice point break can be spirtually fabulous. If I had your budget, I would go to Costa Rica. That's my prescription for the post-playoff blues.

Thanks for a great summer Barry, to you and the rest of the team. This was a fun season, giving these great fans another opportunity to watch playoff ball, that Game 3 of the ALDS was unbelievable, and your performance beating Santana was heroic. You are a true gamer man, I know if you had another shot at Detroit you would have pitched the game of your life. All i can hope for as that you get that chance as an Oakland Athletic next year. I have the most respect for you and would love to see you back in Green n Gold!

Mr. Zito,

As a diehard, thanks for the last seven seasons. Its been pretty **** fun! As a guy that every off season starts to hate the game of baseball simply because of the economics of it all, here's a challenge for you. If you truly do love playing here and would like to be a part of future runs at a title, then just stay. It is entirely up to you. Personally, I work **** hard, and I have never earned in a year what most major leaguers make in a week. So its pretty aggravating when I hear things like "15 million wont be enough to sign Zito". I will never in my life be faced with the decisions you will be faced with this winter, so I cannot honestly say what I would or would not do, but it would be extremely refreshing to see someone with your talent simply say... "10 million IS enough money" I am 99 percent sure that you will end up as a yankee or an angel or a dodger or a red sock; some massive market that will give you ridiculous money and for that, congratulations, but it does make it harder and harder for me, the average fan, to shell out an extra $5 per seat and an extra $5 to park and an extra $2 per hot dog and beer, (not to mention that I live in Las Vegas and going to a game costs me a round trip airline ticket as well) just so you guys can have "enough". I am sorry for ranting, I truly am, I am just saddened by the end of the season. For now I am faced with another long off season of contract talks and losing big name free agents and idiot owners giving huge deals to guys with career .500 records and era's in the sixes. And of course the hiking of prices to pay for it all. Still, every April, I try my best to get right back into the game I love so much and forget all the b.s. ,and I will. Baseball is that great a game. But the next five months will be just as aggonizing and annoying as it is every winter for a diehard A's fan. I am simply hoping for a change. So if your time in Oakland is through, then best of luck to you where ever you end up. You will always have a fan in me, except when you pitch against the A's.

170 days until opening day.

Barry Zito...
It has been such a pleasure watching you pitch these last 6 or so years in Oakland. I grew up going to A's games with my father, whose father was an Oakland fan back in Phillie, so we really bleed Green & Gold, BoSox or Yank style. Generations. And a pitcher like you, as my dad always says, only comes around once a generation. I live in Lalaland now, but I was at the final game of the year at Anaheim, drove up the 5 to see y'all clinch Game 3 of the ALDS, and southwested up to Game 1 and 2 of the ALCS. And I know you know this, but baseball is a game of inches. And for whatever the reasons, the inches fell on the Tigers side this time. They were scared of us--they knew it was a toss up--and maybe it was just meant to be there year. But you most hold your head high. Without you, we would have never ever been able to be in the postseason, and I'm still hoping for some miracle that you'll stay in Oaktown. Against all financial odds, stay and finish what you started.

Thanks for the memories, and know that you have a fan--who has taken BART from his house in Berkeley down to the Colisuem for the past decade or so--and whose fondest memories are lazy summer afternoons, watching your curve break from 12 to 6. Keep rockin that mound!

peace,

jakE

jake@jakebern.com

Hi Barry,
It's been a lot of fun following this team, not just because you guys were winning but because of all the loose and fun personalities on the team. Thank you for all the hard work and dedication you've put into pitching for the A's, and even if you leave, it's cool to know your influence will still be felt in the organization with the young pitchers that you've mentored these last few years. Good luck where ever you end up next year, though I really hope it's Oakland because I'll definitely miss you if you leave. (Don't go, Barry, please don't go!)

Wendy

Barry,
The A's had a great year this year. And you know what, you helped them get to the ALCS, something that previous teams failed at. Now, even if you are going to go to another team, you've gave the rest of the A's the confidence that they can make it that one step further. Goodbyes are always the hardest, but at least you can leave having accomplished something. Like you said, you beat Johan in the Metrodome, and swept the Twins. That's big. Safe travels (to Boston?) but anywhere that you go, i'll still be rooting for you (except the Yankees, that's no good).

later gator,

Samantha

Barry-
Thanks to you and all the guys for a great season! Give Huston a pat on the back and let him know he did well--don't let him dwell on that last pitch. Hope to see you in green and gold next year but regardless I know you'll do well wherever you go. Best of luck!

Kathy

Whether you stay in Oakland or go somewhere else, I'll always be supporting you, Barry!

And your curveball is absolutely disgusting.

Barry- thanks for being such a great team leader for the a's all of these years. It's been enjoyable watching you develop as a great pitcher. Especially after the A's traded Mulder and Hudson, I think that you really proved your ability to be able to be a positive influence on the players around you. I'm sure whatever happens in the free agency market, you will be able to make the right decision. I hope that you are able to remember the good memories from this year [lots of great pitchers have trouble with the Yankees sometimes], while you use the difficult times to improve as a pitcher and a person. Good luck with everything and have a safe off-season!

you are a great pitcher and had a great year and should not look back on the season with any dissapointment

I understand those beep!! Tigers won but ur a great pitcher. hopefully u'll cheer the mets on . but seriously ur awesome . well isn't that why they chose u for the postseason? talk later

Daniel^^

Barry,

Yes the ending was rough, but the ride was ABSOLUTELY STELLAR. What a great year it has been! I have been an A's fan for 25+ years after growing up in the Pittsburgh area where I lived and died with the Pirates. There we had the Series of '71,Roberto Clemente, Bill Mazeroski and lots of wonderful memories after years of rough seasons. The A's will do it again and the fans would love to have you stay and be a part of it when they do....we both know that some intangible things are more important than free agent salaries.

All the best no matter where you end up in the next stage of your fantastic career. Thanks for the memories and know that you will ALWAYS be an Oakland A.

Deborah

Pleasanton

Thank you for such a FANTASTIC season! I enjoyed it so much, even though this ending isn't exactly what I envisioned for all of you. But the season was great and you all should be proud of yourselves... I very much hope that you come back to us next year. It will just break my heart to see you in another uniform. But no matter where you end up, I will still keep an eye on you. You will do great things, just as you have already done... Have a great off season and once again, THANK YOU for everything.

Valerie, Disco Bay

Barry:

It's amazing how the A's are in it every year. Detroit is just the latest buzzsaw! It seems like the last five years there is one team that just blasts through the playoffs! How about signing with the Yanks and makin' it happen for them next year :>)

Barry,

Thank you. I hope that where ever you end up after this winter makes you happy and you have success.

<3 Katie

i read the blog and i would lie if i said i didnt get misty. i have been an A's fan since i was born in 77 and you were my favorite A of all time. where ever you end up i am going to root for you like i do now lol unless it against the green and gold. keep smiling
brian

Barry, you're the best and I'll always be a huge fan, but whoever you do sign with this winter, please, please DON'T SIGN WITH THE YANKEES!

-Mark in Madison WI

Barry, as a fan I'm proud of you and proud of the whole team. You gave us all so much pleasure this season. I'll never forget being in the stands for Game 3 of the ALDS...that was so special!

I'd love to see you in the green and gold next year, but I understand it's a business. So I wish you all the best regardless of where your career takes you.

I read your blog and reading the last entry made me cry. I'm going to miss seeing you in green and gold, but I know that you are doing what you feel in your heart is right.
I know that you will acheive your goals wherever you go, and I will ALWAYS be a Barry Zito fan.

Good Luck in whatever you do and wherever you go!

~Dana~

Barry,

Why can't you just stay?

Why is it always have to be about the money, We've lost so may good players because of the money, your my favorite player and everyone who posts comments here, it's really going to hurt if we loose another player to the money.

But it just business right...

Your fan Danny.

Barry,
I'm with everyone else when I say that I would love to see you in green and gold next season. I can't say I'll be able to switch my team loyalty, but no matter where you end up, I'll always be a huge Zito fan. You pitched the very first A's game I ever saw, and ever since, I have followed the A's.

Thank you for all the memories, for always giving it your all, and for helping to make this team special. Whatever team gets you is lucky, good luck!

-Tiffany

told you you would get sweeped.that was a great game though, tough loss. GO TIGERS!
-Andrew

Barry,
Clearly it's easier to have the right idea about attitude than it is to achieve that attitude. Ellis' injury seemed to take a lot of confidence and cohesion away from the A's, and maybe everybody's attempts to make up just that tiny amount was part of the team's downfall.

Hey, this season was a blast--from the second and third nights of the season whooping up on the Yankees all the way to destroying the White Sox down the stretch and then going into the Dome of Horrors and showing the Twinkies how to execute.

The A's swept the Twins, and the Twins outplayed the Tigers--let's leave it at that!

Your work for the troops/veterans is truly admirable.

I hope you go to a great baseball town and help somebody win--except when you face the A's! --And I do hope you shun Steinbrenner's ugly money and all the failure it's purchased lately.

Thank you for letting us get so close to what goes on for great athletes like yourself on the bigger stages, and for all of your competitive efforts and achievements in Oaktown.

And look out everybody for the '07 Athletics!!!

--Chris W in Oakland

Barry Thanks for many great years in Oakland and personifying what it means to be an Oakland Athletic. As much as I hope the A's and you can work out a contract the reality is that more than likely won't happen. Thank you and I wish you the best in the rest of your career. If that path takes you away from Oakland then so be it. But for the love of all that is holy please don't sign with the Yankees, Red Sox, or Angels.

It’s sad but true – free agency and trades are a part of the game. It took me a little while to realize that and accept that. I live in New Jersey and grew up a huge Yankee fan during the Mattingly years when they couldn’t buy a trip to the postseason – or at least they didn’t buy one. I suffered through the losing, and it wasn’t until I was in High School that they started winning. It was awesome going to playoff games and learning what stress was all about. I watched some of my favorite players, like Andy Pettitte and Alfonso Soriano leave NY, and I cringed as some of my least favorite names in sports came into town. Unfortunately, that’s just part of the game. It just makes you think twice about what you’re rooting for.

Rather than getting upset over it, I look at players changing teams as a reason to watch more baseball games. Free agency and trades have turned me into more of a fan of the players themselves, rather than a fan of a team. If I was still strictly a Yankee fan, then you probably wouldn’t be my favorite player, I’m sure I wouldn’t wear # 75 on my softball team, and I probably wouldn’t have made the trip to Arizona in March to see you. By the way, thanks for signing – it made my life!!

Becoming a “baseball fan” has opened my eyes to many players that I ordinarily wouldn’t have known much about. Your true fans are going to notice the name on the back of your jersey rather than the name on the front. Anyone who follows you knows that you’re a model athlete – and I don’t just mean you’re hot! You’re so dedicated to becoming the best that you can be, and I know there are SO many teams out there that think you’re the missing piece to their puzzle.

You have a busy winter ahead of you! The East Coast is waiting for you! Will it be Rick Peterson and the Mets, or will it be the real New York team?? Either way, I’ll be watching you!!

JILL

Barry,

Just wanted to thank you for sharing with us. It has been great to read your blog.

The fans rode the roller coaster with the whole team and we are all sad the ride ended the way it did.

The A's all seem like a great group of guys to play and hang with. We love you all! Keep your heads up and don't look back.

Most of all thank you for being you. Your an awesome pitcher and an even better role model. Mr. and Mrs. Zito must be very proud! You will be missed if you must go! Best of luck to you on your next adventure! We will be rooting for ya!

Take care,

The Eacret Family

Pleasanton

Hey Barry!
I'm really competitve in sports, so I know losing is never fun. It may feel terrible at the moment, but as soon as that anger passes, you will be able to reflect on the great season you had this year! Please don't be too hard on yourself, it's such a confidance destroyer! We love you Barry, and I have so much respect for you, not just as a player, but as a person. I just finished reading Moneyball, and now I get more about how the money game works. If you leave, it's going to be really tough, we will miss you so much! If you go, please go to an American League team, so we can see you play in Oakland again! Thank you for being so great to your fans. I hope to see you next year in green and gold!

Megan

If baseball is your first love Barry, then go to St.Louis (if they can afford you). There is no better place to play. The music scene is better than you might think too...blues, jazz, bluegrass, rock n'roll which they appreciate as much as their baseball. Also; you'd be performing for the most knowledgeable and loyal fans around. One thing though; you can't surf down the Ole Mississloppy.

Don't go Barry. How many millions does a man need to be happy? The answer is none. And you'll still get much more than nothing from the A's. Life is about enjoying where you are and who you're with. If somewhere else intrigues you more, best of luck to you. But if you're happy in Oakland, stay! Brad Radke made that decision many years ago and it worked for him in Minnesota. Send a message to the kids that money isn't everything.

I'm really going to miss u Barry in that A's uniform. But as I said before, I'll follow your career. Thank you for everything!!! Your awesome....Love You....Love the A's.........

Well Barry, theres one way that you could get this chance back next year......DON'T LEAVE!

No, I fully understand your situation. I wish in this day and age we could see an athelete that would chose loyalty to a team and fans enough to take less money, but hey, would I do that if I were in your shoes? I'd like to think that I would, but probably not.

This team has evoked an deep emotional connection for me with sports for the first time in quite a while. I've been a sports fan all my life and felt good about other teams, but I mean a real 'feel it in your gut' emotion when I watch you guys play. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for going out there and giving everything you got for all these years. It's been truely exciting! I spend a certain amount of time in the Summer staying in Missouri, and I've been able to see you pitch in (old) Busch Stadium as well as Kaufman Field, and all I can say is if you go anywhere else....please make it KC or St Louis!! I want to see you pitch again!

Much Respect,

Brian

BARRY! I'm not ready to let you go yet. You're my absolute favorite player of all time, and I don't think you should go anywhere but the A's. You've been a HUGE factor on this team, more than people realize, and we need you. Nobody says you HAVE to take more money. I always thought you were the kind of guy who chose his heart over any material things, and I hope your heart is in Oakland. I'm pleading that you come back, even if it means not getting the contract that other teams may offer you. Look at somebody like Tom Brady, who took massive pay cuts so that he could keep his team members and help the organization. I know that you can do the same thing, and I hope to God you do. You've done so much for this young rotation, and you've got so much potential and great years to come I don't want to see it anywhere but Oakland. You're the figurehead of a young, talented, and VERY fun team, and I know you won't get that anywhere else on the same level.

Please Barry. Stay. For the fans. But more importantly, for yourself. This is where you belong. We love you.

Barry, thank you so much for a great season! I am still impressed at how nice you were in Seattle posing for pictures. I have a great one of you and my seven year old daughter, and she calls you her boyfriend! Your'e a true gentleman and a great competitor and I hope your'e career continues to blossom! Thank you again! And please stay at a hometown discount! Please!

Barry, Thank You for being a Great Oakland Athletic. I thank you for representing us with such pride throughout this journey. As everyone else has posted I would love to see you back in the Green and Gold. If it doesn't work out you will always have a fan in me. Have a great off season. Hang Ten!

Please don't leave... please don't. You're the core, Zito... the boys still need you.

Barry,

It is a business, we all know that. But it's also something deeper, something that becomes a part of us, our collective spirit. It doesn't have to be about money, it can be about something bigger- consider seriously staying with A's. You're part of our family, even if you move on to a new city. But think about how close we were this year - we can go all the way, and we surely need you to get there! You're in our hearts always.... Stay an A, Barry!

Megan

Fremont

Hey Barry. Avoiding the obvious of what happened in this last series, all that aside I want to say that this has been my most memorable season watching the A's play.
I tried making it to every game I could go to (without getting in trouble at work =P) and to watch almost every game on TV. The thought that you might be leaving mid-season encouraged me to try and be there for the dreaded "last Zito game with the A's." But fortunately for me, and the fans and the team, we got to see you take the A's into the playoffs. And I think regardless of whether you made it to the World Series or not, we are so grateful that you guys took the team this far... That we were able to enjoy a few more games with cold autumn nights, inflated ticket prices, and $5 hot dogs on Wednesdays instead of $1 =). We love you for it, and although I understand there are many factors that contribute to whether or not you stay in Oakland for at least another season, I wish more that anything that you will stay. You got a lot to teach these young one's still!

My niece was born just a few weeks ago, it'd be nice for her to come to her first A's game next season wearing the cutest A's outfit you've ever seen and seeing you pitch for her first time - how's that for an incentive!!! Ok, I know that was cheesy enough but possibly not enough to keep ya in Green ;).

SO I guess it's best to say that once you've cleared your head and have a chance to fully think what it is to become of next year for you, I'm down to be a Barry Zito fan anyday if not with the A's. We all love you and support you and your true fans are willing to cheer you on where ever you go.... just for the sake of bitterness, if you DO leave us, please don't go to the Tigers!! Lol, ok, have a great time in the off-season, enjoy some football, the holidays, maybe meet some cool people along the way, and I hope you do get a chance to make it to Japan.

Catch ya next season - I hope so much with the A's tho!

Luv, Tania

One of your biggest fans!

Zito-
You are my all time favorite A. Always will be. You didn't need another start to prove to us what you can do, trust me Zito, we all know very well what you are capable of doing. Reading your blog made me cry. Zito I dont think you know how much we all love you and wish for you to come back. I dont think any other color will look as good on you then green and gold =) Zito, YOU ARE AWESOME!!! I will have the biggest crush on you FOREVER!!! Please, I will do anything, stay with the A's...

-Ashley

Barry, Thanks to you and the whole team for a great year.I hold out hope that you will be wearing an A's uniform next season,but in any case, you will always be an A to me.You are a class guy on and off the field,and no matter what uniform you are wearing when you are introduced you will get a loud ovation from me.Best wishes no matter what you may do. Judy