Q:  When you acquired Josh Beckett via trade, did you expect him to become a Cy Young candidate, as appears his future in the NASBL for this year and into the future?

A: When we made the decision to acquire Josh, we knew he had the making to become a “Premier” pitcher in this league. Josh has matured and has hopefully overcome some of the problems (blisters) that have plagued him in the past. We look for Josh to have a fine 2008 campaign.

Q:  4/5 of your rotation is set; will Miami use the #9 pick on a starter, as predicted by the Springfield Times?

A: I read that article in the Springfield Times and I have to say it’s pretty close to what we had envisioned. As far as our # 9 pick, we’ll just have to see who is available at that time. You can plan for who you will take, but as we all know, there are always that one or two managers who put a wrench into the best-laid plans. Who knows, maybe Braun will be there at #9. hahaha

Q:  After a couple of rough early years, Surf management has righted the ship and Miami appears to be a playoff contender for years to come.  What factors are most responsible for turning this from a 65 to an 85+ win franchise?

A: There are two factors for our turn around, # 1 Good Management – In the early years, we as an organization didn’t do our “Homework” and it cost us. Now we spend that extra time researching and planning. It has really paid off for us. # 2 Good Drafting and Trades – There was a time when our leadership didn’t know the value of a good deal. Hell, at one time in my career, I threw Wade Boggs into a deal as a “Throw-In”. Now, we look for “bargains” and deals that really help our club. This is evident with our deals for Josh Beckett, Bobby Abreu and Carlos Delgado. We are hoping Schmidt makes a full recovery and can contribute to our pitching staff in 2009.

Q:  Seriously, how good is J.J. Putz?  His stuff appears unhittable and the numbers back that up.  What is his secret, and can he elevate Chad Cordero to that same level of excellence? How good is J.J. Putz??

A: Hmmm let’s just say I am glad I don’t have to face him. This guy has become one of, if not the BEST closer in the game today. This kid was unreal last season and we expect him to be even better this year. I don’t really think there is a “secret” to his stuff, you know what’s coming, and you just have to hit it. As far as Chad is concerned, yeah he slipped a bit last year. I mean this guy was the Fireman of the Year in 2006. We’re hoping he can regain his form of 2006. If he can, we will have a formidable combination.

Q:  When looking ahead five years, what player on your team gives you the most cause for optimism?

A: I’d have to say there are two players that come to mind. Mr. Jose Reyes and Mr. David Wright. These two youngsters are incredible and will be for many years to come. I don’t think there is a better left side of the infield in the league. MSU fans will be cheering for them for many years to come. 

Q:  What is the most enjoyable aspect of NASBL?

A: The most enjoyable aspect of the NASBL for me is the camaraderie with other NASBL Managers. This is not one of those “fly by night” Strat leagues. This is a great league with a solid foundation. This league is in the hands of people that care and work hard to keep the league at a high level. I’d love to stay and chat, but there is a draft I have to prepare for.