In the midst of his first spring as a manager, we sat down for a Q & A with new Cutters skipper Andy Tracy in between workouts in Clearwater.

How did this off-season differ from past off-seasons for you?
It was completely different from the standpoint that for the first time in 10 years, I didnt travel anywhere to play winter baseball. I was also Mr. Mom this winter, so it opened my eyes to what my wife goes through day in and day out.

What has it been like being at your first spring training as a member of the coaching staff, instead of as a player?
It actually has been a smooth transition so far. I thought it would be because I walked away from the game as a player when I believed it was time to move on. No regrets.

What do you miss most, if anything, about being as player?
Honestly, going to the cage and hitting every day.

Ever tempted to get in the cage and let it rip?
Well I miss hitting, but tempted? No thanks I'm done.

What kinds of things are you learning in your first spring as a manager?
I'm really learning a lot from the minor league staff. The baseball stuff is all the same, but the computer work is all new to me. There are lots of reports and computer work that need to be done everyday. So I'm learning all the in and outs of the computer system and daily reports.

Any tips from former Cutters managers?
(Greg)Legg and (Mickey)Morandini have been awesome. Truby and Wathan just keep big leaguing me and say "learn it on your own". just kidding. They've all been great.

Are you getting used to coaching 3rd base?
Yes, it's as close to playing as you can get. Hopefully it will be as smooth when the lights come on and the real games begin.

It's a long hike from the Cutters dugout to the 3rd base coaching box at Bowman Field. Dusty Wathan used to do it in an all-out sprint. Any ideas on how you will navigate it?
I think I will backpedal over there and then complete the trip with an Ozzie Smith backflip.

Wow. We'll hold you to that one! In all of our Pregame Live interviews at the ballpark, we have what's called the Fast Five. Five quick questions, 5 quick answers. Get ready to tackle your 1st Fast Five.
Bring it on!

1. What's your favorite place to eat in Clearwater?
Island Way Grill

2. If we opened your refrigerator, what would we find?
Hummus

3. What's your favorite non-alcoholic drink?
Coffee

4. What was the last movie you saw in the theater?
No clue its been a long time since I went to see a movie.

5. What was the first paying job you ever had?
Working on baseball fields in Bowling Green, Ohio

Thanks Andy and best of luck through the rest of spring training. We look foeward to seeing you in Williamsport in June.