Also known as “Midnight Talk With Sanji”, the Cubs GM SanjiWatsuki was nice enough to sit down with me early today to speak about the Cubs, scouting, and Oscar Delu, amongst other things.
OSR: Thanks for taking the time to answer a few questions for the OSR, Sanji.
Sanji:It’s not like I have anything better to do.
OSR: Let’s start first and foremost with the NL Central this season. The Brewers are noticeably much improved this season, and it’s looking like one of the best races in all of baseball. How do you like your chances?
Sanji:I think I’ve got a 50% chance at the playoffs. The Brewers have me beat in the division but the Cubs can take it if they’re lucky. If not, we’ll have to beat the crap out of the Expos.
OSR:How about your signing of John Sanders in the offseason? You were often criticized for a lack of “star power” in the last few years. Did the signing of Sanders have anything to do with this?
Sanji:I didn’t especially want star power. I just thought John Sanders had an incredibly affordable contract and filled a hole in the roster. For all I care, I could have just tossed Andrew Irwin AKA Brett Gardner in the outfield everyday and called it a day.
OSR: You’re very well known for picking up pitchers off the scrap heap and turning them into very valuable pieces of your ballclub. How much scouting usually goes into finding these types of players?
Sanji: I don’t do any scouting myself. My scouts do it. I pay them $0 and I’m tied for first in expenses.
OSR: Are there any specific prospects that you’re really looking forward to?
Sanji:Ain’t nobody gonna take John Schmidt from me unless they’re packing some serious talent. He kicks more ass than MM with one arm tied behind his back.
OSR: Not sure that’s possible, Sanji.
Sanji:Oh, and Peter Fortner is pretty awesome, too. I’m considering moving him to the infield. Yes, potentially a left handed 2B.
OSR: As the Brewers continue to emerge as a real threat, where do you see the Cubs 5 seasons into the future?
Sanji:Back in 1st place with the Brewers without money or their young base.
OSR: Most hated player in the league?
Sanji:Paul Kelly when the manager gives him the green light. Gauna playing at 1B or corner OF. Sanji Watsuki, that 2B sucks.
OSR: What a dumbass name, too.
Sanji:Oh, and RemNAIHF, too. But he’s not a player.
OSR: Oscar Delu is an excellent example of the aforementioned “pitchers off the scrap heap”. In limited time, he’s performed very nicely for you. What did you see in him when he was on the Brew crew?
Sanji:He’s a ground ball pitcher with better control than most expect. A lot like Peter Lambert.
OSR: Your WS pick this season?
Sanji:Cubs.
OSR: Alright Sanji, thanks a lot for your time and good luck in defeating the Brewers.
Sanji:I don’t need luck. We’re that good.