Josh Byrnes joined Josh and Charod of “The Drive” on XTRA Sports 1360 to talk Padres.  If you are like me you were growing weary of all the softball questions Byrnes was getting on his previous interviews since becoming the general manager.

(Download/Listen to the interview here)

Topics included:

• Mat Latos trade thoughts

• Stockpiling the minor leagues – “Looking to build a roster that has staying power”

• Locking up young guys to long term contracts – “If you pick the right guy, it’s a pretty good financial decision”

• Mat Latos’ attitude was not an issue – “I don’t think it’s a character issue”

• If Anthony Rizzo has a future in San Diego

• If the pending TV deal is a factor in the budget.

• How soon could Robbie Erlin and Joe Wieland make an impact on the major league roster.

• The difficulty in signing offensive free agents to play in Petco.

• Donovan Tate’s struggles.

• Do you have the right scouts in place?