Pitcher Ian Anderson spoke with the media at Chop Fest on Jan. 25 at Truist Park. In the interview, he discussed his expectations for the coming season and being ranked among the top minor league prospects. The interview was edited for brevity.
Q: You were around spring training last year; how different do you think it’ll be for you this time around?
A: "I think it's going to be quite a bit different. I've seen the new (spring-training) complex, it's fantastic. I think that's going to make things a lot easier. Just having more camaraderie with the guys, with this being my second time around, I'll definitely be a bit more comfortable."
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Q: With just being that much closer to the majors, does it seem like that goal is closer in sight this year? What’s realistic for you?
A: "There's definitely a little bit more to compete for me this year. Knowing that there can be a spot or two spots. I'm looking forward to getting down there and getting to work. I hope that I can go to (Triple-A) Gwinnett and put in the work that I need to put in. Hopefully everything works out, and I have a chance to help this team out here (in Atlanta)."
Q: Why were you better this last year?
A: I think it's just been a constant buildup on working on the repertoire and working on the stuff. And then the confidence that comes with putting up pretty good stats, year in and year out. Just learning so much throughout the course of the season and maturing a little bit.
Q: With the signings of pitchers Cole Hamels and Felix Hernandez, how much do you plan on picking their brains to get some of the advanced stuff?
A: Quite a bit, without a doubt. (Hamels and Hernandez) are such an awesome resource to have, even for just the four or five weeks of spring training. You can't see it all in this game, but they've seen pretty darn close to it all. Just being able to talk about some of the more advanced stuff with them is going to be awesome.
Q: What about seeing yourself ranked in those top-100 minor league prospect lists?
A: It's always cool. I don't pay too much attention to that stuff though. What the Braves think is more important than what other people think, but it's still definitely cool to see that.
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