Hall of Fame GM Gillick Puzzled by Rockies Putting Interim on GM Title for Bill Schmidt

Pat Gillick has long been considered one of the most insightful members of management in professional baseball, underscored by his induction to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y.

And when he saw the news that the Rockies were moving scouting director Bill Schmidt into the position of interim general manager in the aftermath of the departure of Jeff Bridich, Gillick was confused.

“Why interim?” Gillick asked. “This guy is professional.”

Gillick said his interaction with Schmidt has never been on a personal basis, only professional.

“Everytime I run into him, he is minding his own business, focusing on the game, looking for signs of why a player can excel,” said Gillick. “Look at the guys he has signed.

“This guy has a great, not good, but great, track record. Every time I have run into him I am impressed. I hope they give him consideration for the job on a fulltime basis. The sport needs him.”