[Fantasy Skipper]

Denver, CO -- August 16, 1991 (Morning) -- The day after the whirlwind press conference, Arthur Sterling III and Caleb Thorne sat in Sterling's private office, the initial shockwaves of the announcement already fading into the background. This was where the real work began.

"Caleb," Sterling started, a thoughtful expression on his face, "yesterday was...certainly memorable. The press is still trying to figure you out. We've discussed a lot in the interview process, but we didn't go to deep into you as an individual. Tell me more about your journey, how you arrived at this point, and how it shapes your vision for the Rockies."

Caleb Thorne leaned forward, his calm demeanor unwavering. "Mr. Sterling, as you know I graduated from the Colorado School of Mines. My focus there was applied mathematics and data analysis. While my peers were off looking at geological formation ore engineering systems, I found myself applying those same principles -- identifying patterns, predicting outcomes, optimizing processes -- to baseball. I devoured everything I could fine on early statistical analysis, particularly the works of Bill James, and began developing my own models. I spent a few years at a data as a data analyst for a tech firm in Boulder, which honed my skills in handling large, complex datasets and building predictive algorithms. In my spare time, I launched 'Mountain Ball Analytics,' an online newsletter where I published by research on player valuation, park factors, and the unique challenges of playing at altitude. I also spent time informally scouting for a small independent league team in the Southwest, gaining practical, on-the-ground understanding of raw talent."

Sterling nodded. "And that's precisely what intrigued me. Now, let's talk about the manager. We need someone who can translate your vision to the field, who can lead men, and who understands the unique environment we're in. What kind of manger are we looking for?"

"We need a leader who is adaptable and open-minded," Thorne replied, his voice firm. "Someone who values player development, not just veteran experience. Given the challenges of altitude affecting pitch movement and player recovery, our manager must be willing to embrace new training methodologies and in-game strategies. They need to be a strong communicator, capable of fostering a resilient clubhouse culture, especially for an expansion team. They must be able to work hand-in-glove with the front office, understanding that our analytical approach is a tool, not a replacement for their expertise."

Sterling considered this. "So, less about the 'traditional baseball guy' and more about a forward-thinking leader. We've looked at names like Dave Donovan, with his extensive coaching background, and Brendan O'Malley, who certainly brings a highly analytical mind from the college ranks. What are your thoughts on those types of profiles?"

"Donovan brings invaluable experience in clubhouse management and fundamental play," Thorne acknowledged. "He'd command immediate respect. O'Malley's analytical rigor is impressive, and his understanding of sports science is cutting-edge. The challenge with any candidate will be finding the right balance -- someone who can integrate our data-driven approach with the art of managing players without alienating either side. It's all about finding a partner who can implement our strategy effectively, while also providing the crucial human element."

Sterling shifted gears. "Let's pivot to building the roster. We have the expansion draft coming up, then the amateur draft. How do you envision constructing this team, particularly with the unique challenges of Denver?"

Thorne paused, gathering his thoughts. "As I mentioned in the interview, our philosophy has to be to build from within, focusing heavily on the amateur draft and international scouting. This is not to say we won't occasionally dabble in free agency. We need to identify and develop players who can thrive in this environment. For hitters, that means prioritizing players with strong plate discipline, who can hit for power, but also those who can make consistent hard contact. The thin air will naturally carry balls, but we can't solely rely on home runs. We need players who can put pressure on defenses.

"For pitching, this is where the altitude becomes our biggest strategic consideration. Pitches break less here. That means we'll prioritize pitchers with exceptional velocity and command, who can consistently hit their spots and generate swings and misses through sheer stuff, rather than relying heavily on movement. We'll also look for pitchers who have a diverse arsenal and can adapt their grips and release points. Our player development system will be designed to teach pitchers how to succeed both at home and on the road, understanding the physiological and mechanical adjustments required. We'll be looking for athletes who can recover quickly, given the demands of playing at altitude. The expansion draft will be about finding undervalued assets and players who fit this specific mold, rather than just picking the 'best available' by traditional metrics. It's a long-term build, Mr. Sterling, focused on sustainability and exploiting our unique home-field advantage."