Interview with Orioles GM

1. Are you looking to compete next year?

The plan is to stay competitive, while the younger players I got in the big trades continue to develop.  At most, I expect to finish at the top of the Wild Card race during this time period.  I think the younger players we brought in we'll help us stay at the top and perform at a high level while they continue to develop. 

2. What was your motive for doing all the trades you did on june 17th and 18th?

We want to win.  The ultimate goal for our franchise is to win a world series.  Two season ago this team got swept in the World Series and last season finished well below .500.  I just didn't see the consistency needed to achieve our goal.  It sucks to trade away fan favorites like Trumbo and Wieters, but some of the players we brought in we'll become fan favorites in a short time. 

3. What team is the biggest trouble for your O's in the AL East?

Our biggest threat in the AL East right now is the Tampa Bay Rays.  They have such a young good pitching staff that they can compete down the line for several years to come. 

4. With so many good players contracts up next year do you think we will see the Orioles losing them?

We've already begun preparing for next offseason by trading away some of those contracts and getting some really good young players to fill the holes left by guys like Reddick and Stanton.  The only player we HAVE TO KEEP is Ryan Brett.  We feel he can be a solid player for us for many years to come and fill that lead off spot for us. 

5. Who do you see as your MVP?

Our MVP after our trades is Ryan Brett.  He's the guy that we'll get everything going and keep everything moving.  He'll set the table every game while in the lead off spot.  He's very crucial to our team.