Cardinals draft pick Josh Wirsu talks to Redbird Rants

Josh Wirsu, a 30th round selection of the St. Louis Cardinals during the 2014 MLB Draft, spoke to Redbird Rants on Tuesday.

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Daniel Solzman: Josh, thanks for joining Redbird Rants today. How are things treating you as you settle into Johnson City?

Josh Wirsu: Well, I am in Palm Beach getting ready to go Johnson City, but so far it’s pretty good.

Daniel Solzman: Can you describe what it felt like when you found out you were drafted by the Cardinals in the 30th round?

Josh Wirsu: I was absolutely thrilled. A dream’s door opening and it is a mixed feeling that is really breath taking. I really took back and realized how blessed I am to have an opportunity like this in front of me.

Daniel Solzman: When did you first learn that the Cardinals were interested in selecting you??

Josh Wirsu: I first learned they were interested Saturday morning.

Daniel Solzman: What’s the reaction been like on Twitter and social media since the draft?

Josh Wirsu: It has been pretty spectacular. I am from a small town, and the draft is not even a bid deal. My best friend went three picks before me to the A’s, so the town was nuts on Twitter and Facebook. Georgia Southern was also, very supportive and then Cardinals fans started to follow me and mention me. It was a really cool experience.

Daniel Solzman: What did you do during the last week to take your mind off the draft?

Josh Wirsu: I was with my friends and family most of the week, which I had not seen in 6 months, so I did not really think about it too much.

Daniel Solzman: How has Georgia Southern coach Rodney Hennon helped in preparing you ready for the next level?

Josh Wirsu: Coach Hennon and Green have shed a lot of light on the next level. Coach Hennon reminded us everyday of the tradition of Georgia Southern which is winning and winning with class. Coach Green helped me develop as a player on and off the field.

Daniel Solzman: I know you didn’t pitch in the game but how exciting was it to watch your teammates beat and shut out Florida State?

Josh Wirsu: It was incredible. Their fans were loud all night and Sam Howard is a good friend of mine and I was happy to see him succeed there. It was awesome just to be a part of that game from the dugout.

Daniel Solzman: How honored were you to have been named as the 2014 Southern Conference Pitcher of the Year?

Josh Wirsu: I was extremely honored. There were a lot of pitchers drafted from our conference and some that weren’t that had seasons like mine. I give a lot of credit to my team for the award though. My team made the plays and scored the runs behind me.

Daniel Solzman: Seeing as how the Cardinals have been developing their prospects of late, are you looking forward to working with the coaches and veterans during Spring Training next year?

Josh Wirsu: Absolutely, I can not wait to work with those guys, but I am also excited to go ahead and get started this year.

Daniel Solzman: The Hall of Famers always make a visit in Jupiter during Spring Training. Is there anyone in particular that you are really looking forward to meeting?

Josh Wirsu: I would really like to meet Bob Gibson. I have a similar follow through as compared on my twitter pictures.

Daniel Solzman: What is something that you like to do for fun when you are not playing baseball?

Josh Wirsu: I like to golf, play laser tag, and read.

Daniel Solzman: Who was your favorite player growing up?

Josh Wirsu: Derek Jeter

Daniel Solzman: What is something that Cardinals fans should know about you?

Josh Wirsu: That I am really excited to be a part of the Cardinals.

Daniel Solzman: Thanks again for joining us and best of luck as your make your way up through the organization. Any words for the best fans in baseball?

Josh Wirsu: GO Cards

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