In the second installment of our Q&A with the newest Blue Jackets, we sit down with defenseman Mike Commodore. Also, Blue Jackets radio analyst Bill Davidge sat down with Commodore. The interview can be seen by clicking here.

BlueJackets.com: What were your first impressions after you signed with Columbus?
Mike Commodore: I was excited, of course. I chose to come here. I was excited about the moves they were making — they told me there was a plan in place, and they were going to execute it. I guess my first experience with the city has really been the last couple of days (visiting for the first time). It’s been great, it’s a nice city and everyone has been welcoming.

CBJ: How excited are you to be here?
MC: I’m very excited. I think this is going to be a good fit for me. When I was trying to decide where I was going to go, a lot of things went into it. You get to do it once, so I wanted to do it right.

CBJ: What did you know about Columbus before arriving?
MC: Not much (laughing). My only experiences here have been staying a night in a hotel, getting up and playing the next day. I didn’t know too much, but I did know that the rink is nice, the building is nice and the surrounding area is nice. I lived in Cincinnati for a year, so I’ve been in Ohio before, and it’s not too unfamiliar. I know that Ohio State is here, and that’s about it.

CBJ: How would your teammates describe your personality?
MC: Hopefully in a good way! I’m pretty easy to get along with, but serious when it comes to hockey. I like having fun, and I like having a good time. Part of winning and having a good team is enjoying yourself. It’s very important. I think I’m someone who is a laid back, fun-loving guy.

CBJ: What is your favorite NHL arena?
MC: Bell Centre in Montreal.

CBJ: Describe your style of play.
MC: My style of play is defense-first. I try to be physical, in people’s faces and be hard to play against. Every once in a while, I like to chip in offensively. That’s not my #1 job, but I like to do it. I’m a guy who plays tough 5-on-5 and kills penalties.

CBJ: When did you start playing hockey?
MC: I started skating when I was four years old. I guess around the age of 5, I started actually playing.

CBJ: What are your hobbies during the off-season?
MC: Well, I like to golf. I don’t do much (laughing). I golf, I workout. That’s really about it. Sometimes, I’ll go on a trip and see something new. I’ll go out and have some fun, but for the most part, it’s relaxing and taking it easy.

CBJ: Which Blue Jackets are you looking forward to playing with?
MC: I was fortunate enough a year ago to play in the World Championships with Jason Chimera and Rick Nash. Obviously, Rick is the leader here. He’s the captain and a very talented player. It’ll be fun to play with him, of course. Chimera is fun, too, I had a good time with him at the World Championships so it’ll be great.

CBJ: Do you prefer to stay in for dinner, or go out?
MC: Out, for sure (laughs). I can’t cook.