Joba Chamberlain: Starting Pitcher, New York Yankees

After spending most of your career in the bullpen—and becoming a sensation in the process—this year you’re set to join a rotation full of Aces.
These guys are so good it’s gonna be awesome. I mean, CC Sabathia won 17 games last year, A.J. Burnett won 18, and of course it’s key that we re-signed Andy Pettitte. As a young pitcher, I’ve got a lot to learn from these guys.

What do you say to folks who criticize the Yankees’ $200-plus million payroll?
We’re one of those teams people love to hate, which I understand, but you have to appreciate the history. The Yankees exist to win. That’s the goal.

You took the mound in the last game at the old Yankee Stadium. Did you nab any souvenirs?
Yeah, I’ve got a bag of dirt! I actually threw the last strikeout at the old stadium, and the clubhouse attendants left a little bag of dirt behind in my locker. It’s back home in Nebraska. I hope my sister is taking care of it. She better be!

Pitchers are notoriously superstitious. Do you have any weird habits on game day?
I have a very particular routine. I always get dressed right to left. If I forget to put my right shoe on first, I’ll have to do it all over again. I call my dad at the exact same time before the game starts. I listen to the same Eminem track from the 8 Mile soundtrack. And I press stop exactly two minutes into the song, every time. I have no idea why.

You’ve quickly become a fan fave in the Bronx. Which player do you wanna beat in Jersey Sales?
Jeter! I mean it’s hard to beat the guy in anything, but that would be cool.

Last year on the Jersey Shore, a man was arrested for impersonating you at bars and restaurants, trying to get free stuff. Where did the fake Joba Chamberlain go wrong?
[Laughs] I mean, the guy was trying to be me to score some bagels. For real! If you’re gonna get caught, at least make it worthwhile, man.

Check out Joba Chamberlain's Guitar Hero interview with Maxim.com.