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Monday, July 28 |
Toronto Star
TORONTO—When I first took a look at, Darren Baker, the GM of the Las Vegas Mirage I was scared. He looked like a vicious guy who purposely would gut his roster to keep payroll low just so he could maximize revenue. Much like one, Harold Ballard, we Toronto hockey fans will never forget. However, when our satellite interview began, I soon had a different opinion about Mr. Baker. Before I get into more detail about Mr. Baker, I’d rather he do it himself.
Moe: Well since this is the first time we've met why don't you tell me more about yourself? Give me a rundown of who Darren Baker is.
Mr. Baker: I’m Darren Baker, 30 years old and live in Washington, Illinois. I Work for Caterpillar as a technical writer that produces maintenance manuals and owner’s manuals for paving equipment. I love all sports, even though I am really bad at golf, I love to travel to tournaments for basketball, enjoy video games and playing, the card game, Magic. I believe that family is more important than making millions working. I’ve been married for almost 2 years (4th of July) and planning on adding kids into the mix in the next year or so. Did I overload you?
Moe: Nope, that is exactly what I accept from an introduction. That's some interesting stuff.
Mr. Baker: I hope it wasn’t too much, if it was just let me know, I tend to ramble a lot.
Moe: Mr. Baker, all is well. Now that I know your history, I'm going to do my best in asking you questions about the Las Vegas Mirage.
Mr. Baker: Ok
Moe: Coming into the season what were your expectations for the Mirage?
Mr. Baker: I expected this to be a rough season, because I prefer to build a team from the ground up. Anybody can grab the obvious superstars. I prefer to grab the youth and let them mature. It allows me to build a dynasty without screwing anybody in trades, burning bridges never makes for a fun league. So I realized I would have a long first two maybe even three seasons. My main objective was keeping my fans happy.
Moe: Based on your objectives, would it not make sense for you to eliminate the older players and build around the likes of Soriano, Conte and Valdes?
Mr. Baker: Yes that is a good point. I have the luxury of having quite a few good young players. Mirage Coliseum is a hitter’s paradise, and I had no real power. That is why I grabbed Genaro Dominguez. He is old, but if this was my real life team, I have to remember the fans. It cost me only a few of my young players, so I went for it. I am hoping that scoring a few more runs at home will help my fan interest grow. I have some stud minor league pitchers and hitters that should mature around the same time. You will see that this franchise will literally change overnight in 2 or 3 years
Moe: That’s very true and a good point at that.
Moe: Overall, what about your team concerns you?
Mr. Baker: My concerns...
Moe: Yes.
Mr. Baker: My concerns are that my fans are not as patient as I am. Being a Chicago Cubs fan, I am used to losing, but I want to do what the Cubs never did. I want to build a perennial champion, but I need some time. The other main concern is obvious if my prospects don't pan out, I am in deep trouble!!!!! I want to keep high attendance until my team gets better. I mean I am in Las Vegas there is always something else the people can do!!
Moe: It's funny with a 4.96 ERA the pitching staff doesn't concern you? Many of your critics feel that as being a weakness.
Mr. Baker: Yes, they are a big concern for me. They actually started with an ERA over 7.00 early in the season, but they are steadily improving. It is tough to see my closer lead my team in wins, but I am trying to by time for my youth to emerge. I have some AWESOME arms in the minors. Also, being that I have such a low payroll, I will be quite active in the free agent market this off-season. I will be able to address the many weaknesses that are glaring on this team
Moe: I know it's not good to pick on your players but is there any one player that has proven to be a bust for you?
Mr. Baker: Good question...let me think...
Mr. Baker: I would have to say at this time, that I am disappointed with Albert Dickerson. I wouldn't go as far as saying a "bust", but his ERA is over 6.00 and I believe is he much better than the numbers he is giving us.
Moe: As the season comes to an end, there is a very good chance that you may end up with the 1st overall pick in the amateur draft. Care to tip your hat on what you might do with it?
Mr. Baker: I will of course assess how my prospects are doing. At that time I will pick what the team needs more. If I had to lean somewhere at this time, I would be leaning towards a hitter, probably an OF or maybe another 1B. But I want to be VERY CLEAR about this. Make no mistake about this Las Vegas is not proud about the possibility of getting the first pick in the draft. We are doing everything we can with the talent we have, to avoid that non-glorious honor. I still honestly believe we will not be in last place when this season ends, but we will see.
Moe: Optimism is a sign of good ownership. I like that kind of commitment. Finally, if you could go back in time what acquisitions would you or wouldn't have made?
Mr. Baker: I never regret any move I make. I believe everything happens for a reason. I would have liked to have done a little better job scouting the pitching, but with the help of my scouts, Las Vegas will do a better job every year of making sure all the newly acquired talent fits into our plan and that they are a good fit for our stadium.
Moe: Thank you for time Mr.Baker. You have been a great first interviewee and I wish you and the Mirage the best of luck on your future endeavors.
Mr. Baker: Thank you very much. You had very good questions. You will definitely help the realism of this league!
Moe: LOL, I will do my best.
After that interview, I realized that Mr. Baker is a man on a mission. He wants to win a championship and build a dynasty that will last for ages. After looking at his team on a broader sense and scouting out some of his prospects. That fantasy may turn into a never-ending reality.
Moe
Moe can be reached at smoothe_sack@hotmail.com. If you want me to interview you just shout and I’ll see what I can do.