Interview with St. Louis Cardinals prospect Charlie Tilson

This interview took place the early part of July and things could be a bit on the dated side.

Daniel Solzman: Thanks for joining Redbird Rants today. How are things going?

Charlie Tilson Everything is going pretty well. I went to the doctor yesterday so I’ve been all over the place but things seem to be right on track. I’m just excited to hopefully get back on the field for the instructional league or something like that.

Daniel Solzman: You got drafted out of New Trier High School in the second round in 2011. How tough of a decision was it between forgoing your college career with Illinois and starting your professional career?

Charlie Tilson I knew I loved the Cardinals and I knew going into it that I really wanted to sign (inaudible).

Daniel Solzman: How did it feel to be named the Illinois Baseball Player of the Year by Gatorade?

Charlie Tilson It was awesome. I knew that there was a lot of factors that weighed into that. I was honored to win it. It’s one of those things where you put a lot of effort into it. You put a lot of effort into a variety of things in your career. I was really honored.

Daniel Solzman: I have to ask since you are from the Chicago area—well, a northern suburb of the city—were you raised a Cubs fan or a Sox fan?

Charlie Tilson I was raised a White Sox fan. I was one of the very few on the North Side but never a Cubs fan.

Daniel Solzman: I know a few of them in Skokie. When did you realize you hurt your shoulder during spring training?

Charlie Tilson Like one of those things, I guess, I was going back for a ball…one of those things you can’t control.

Daniel Solzman: How did it feel to know that you are going to be missing the entire season? What is the rehab process like so far and what is the timetable?

Charlie Tilson My next doctor’s visit is in 10 weeks.

Daniel Solzman: Who was your favorite player growing up?

Charlie Tilson Ken Griffey, Jr.

Daniel Solzman: Thanks again for joining us. Any final words for the best fans in baseball?

Charlie Tilson I hope I get back on the field and it’s an honor to play for the Cardinals.