July 14, 2004
Interview with Michael Sillman
2004 St. Louis Cardinals Draft Pick
By Brian Walton
Mike Sillman is a 6-1, 190-pound right-handed pitcher with a deceptive submarine-style delivery. The 22-year-old was selected by the Cardinals with their 21st selection in the 2004 draft after his senior year at the University of Nebraska, where he led his team in saves in 2004 and is sixth on the school’s all-time list.
Sillman isn’t a big bonus baby. In fact, he is just grateful to have been given a chance to continue to play ball. So far, he’s made the best of the opportunity. After his first eight games as a member of the New Jersey Cardinals, Sillman sports a nice 2.61 ERA. He’s struck out seven in 10-1/3 innings and collected his first professional save on June 17.
You’re a Nebraskan who went to the state university. Is this your first time really being away from home?
No, not really. We’d go play summer ball every year. In four years, I’d be gone every summer.
You played in the Jayhawk League?
All three years.
You had a pretty good summer last year; unscored upon and 10-for-10 in save opportunities, right?
Yeah. It was fun. It was a good summer.
Do you think your showing there helped your chances to be drafted?
I think so. I mean, my name gets out there and everything. It sure didn’t hurt.
You’re living with a host family in New Jersey now?
Yeah, we’ve got a great setup here with a host family, the Forsters. I am living with (Jake) Mullinax. We’re having a good time.
Why did you convert to the submarine style of pitching?
My pitching coach at Nebraska said, “Hey, why don’t we try something new?” I tried it and things worked out for the best. It’s been fun since then.
When did you make the change?
I went to it about a year and a half ago. It was the winter before my junior year.
You’ve performed in middle relief in college and you’ve closed. Which do you prefer and why?
I just like getting the ball. I don’t care when it is. As long as I am out there performing and doing my job, I really don’t care when I get the ball.
When did you know that you were going to be drafted and become a pro?
I really didn’t know if I was going to get drafted or not. When I got the call, I felt pretty good about it. Thought I’d come out here and give it everything I had and see how I do.
Was it your plan to sign quickly?
All I could ask for is an opportunity. And the Cardinals gave me a chance. I’ll try not to disappoint them.
What do you want to accomplish this season?
It’s tough to set goals now, not knowing what to expect. People are still kind of getting into their roles. If you don’t know what your role is, it’s hard to set goals. I’m just going to go out there and give it everything I have.
