Live chat with former Mariner Dan Wilson

Here are highlights of an exclusive live chat Friday with Dan Wilson, former Mariner and longtime fan favorite. He talked about catching in the big leagues, playing alongside Ken Griffey Jr. and the magical 1995 season. For the complete chat and for the series with local sports newsmakers, go to seattletimes.com

Q: What was it like having Ken Griffey Jr. as a teammate?

Wilson: Junior was the best player that I've ever had a chance to see in person. I think the thing that impressed me was just the things he did on the baseball field were things that even major-league players could only dream about. Whether it was a circus catch, key base hit or home run, he always seemed to get the job done.

Q: What's been the toughest challenge about the transition from your baseball career to your new one?

Wilson: I'll let you know when I have a new career :)

The transition for any athlete out of professional sports is going to be very difficult. Thankfully, in my case, I've been able to lean on my family, and having kids grounds you very firmly. I've been able to move right into Dad mode.

Q: Do you have any regrets that you had so many Hall of Fame-caliber players — Junior, Randy Johnson, Alex Rodriguez and Edgar Martinez — and never made it to the World Series?

Wilson: I don't know if regrets is the right word. We all know we had something very special in terms of cohesiveness and talent. Every year our goal was to make it to the World Series, so we were disappointed, but I think we left everything out on the field.

Q: When is the last time you heard "What a Man" by Salt n Pepa — your walk-to-the-plate song)? Does it make you smile, or is it like an nonstop ear worm you can't get rid of?

Wilson: I never get tired of that song! It brings back memories.

Q: How hard is it for players to try to accommodate fans with autographs, when so many want them?

Wilson: For me personally, I knew that came with the territory. It was part of my job to sign as many as I could. Having said that, you can't possibly sign all that are requested. I tried to sign as many of the kids' autographs. At times it can be a no-win situation for the player because you have to say no eventually. It's a huge honor knowing that someone wants your autograph.