Nine Questions with Tommy Watkins

Before becoming the Minnesota Twins' third base coach, Tommy Watkins managed the Chattanooga Lookouts. In 2018, Watkins managed several future Major Leaguers including, Luis Arraez, Nick Gordon, Zack Littell, and Lamonte Wade. We sat down with Watkins this offseason to discuss his time with the Lookouts.

Here is the conversation for Minor League Baseball’s “The Nine” initiative:

What was your most memorable moment with the Lookouts?

It wasn’t a specific moment, but I really enjoyed being part of the development of so many great athletes and men, some of who are still with the Twins now.

Who is your role model?

Torii Hunter is one. I admire the way he went about his business, both on and off the field.

What advice do you have for the younger generation of baseball players?

Be a student of the game, work hard, and be coachable.

What is your favorite place to play baseball?

Now it is in the yard with my kids.

Growing up, what other sports did you play and how did that help you as a baseball player?

I played football, basketball, and baseball. It helped give my body a rest from throwing and playing different sports helped me develop different athletic movements.

How have you dealt with adversity you have faced throughout your career?

I leaned on my family and teammates and I always try to see the positive side or learn something from every situation.

What are some challenges to growing the game?

Making the game more accessible to everyone and just getting more kids to play baseball while loving the game and having fun.

What are you most looking forward to this season?

We have an exciting team, from the coaches and staff to the players, so I’m looking forward to getting back into the swing of things and winning some games. Through my foundation, the Tommy Watkins Foundation, and the Twins community department, we also have some great things planned in the community. Our new partnership with Urban Ventures is one I'm really looking forward to.

As we celebrate Black History Month, what does it mean to you to be coaching the next generation of African American baseball players?

It is an honor to coach and work alongside our elite group of men and athletes. Not only are they some of the best at the game, they are also amazing people.