"There were some lean years there in Seattle as we were learning to play our game," he said. "Lou Piniella came into place and 'Refuse to Lose' became our motto in 1995. With his leadership and guidance, we came down in 1995 to a one-game playoff.
"Ironically enough I would pitch against the same gentleman I got traded for to Montreal, Mark Langston, in a one-game playoff for the AL West. It was a very magical moment for Seattle, and I'm very proud to have played there for 10 years. Thank you, Seattle."
Johnson became the first player with significant Mariners ties selected to the Hall of Fame.