VIDEO: New Trier's Charlie Tilson Talks About Draft Day
Tilson calls it "a dream come true" to be selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in the second round of the Major League Baseball Draft.
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Former New Trier standout center fielder Charlie Tilson was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals with the 79th overall pick in the 2011 Major League Baseball Draft on Tuesday.
Shortly after learning of his selection, Tilson sat down with Patch to talk about his excitement and the pending contract negotiations that will take place this summer. Tilson has also committed to play for the University of Illinois, and still has the option to do so if he is unable to secure the desired contract from the Cardinals.
"Right now I just think that I have two of the best options in the world in my opinion," Tilson said. "The coaching staff at Illinois has been so good to me, but at the same time, the professional route is also a great option."
For more on the conversation with Tilson and his family, click on the video link above. Stay tuned to Patch for updates on Tilson's final decision.
Carolina Hollingsworth
7:19 pm on Thursday, June 9, 2011
Wow, what a nice family.. Down to earth parents says it all... it takes good solid parenting to have a success story as this one in the North Shore. Bravo to these parents! Good luck and best wishes for a bright future in the MLB!
This is a GREAT example for other "Norshie" parents to learn from. There is a plague of North Shore Mommies and Daddies who all think their kid is the "star" or should be the star "pitcher" - I never could understand this as being a pitcher is one person on a big TEAM. I am so excited to see such a dedicated and talented outfielder be the new local home town hero! I know many dedicated coaches have quit volunteering due to the unrealistic demands of "Norshie" parents. Sad.
When was the last time a star pitcher was drafted out of the New Trier? I really don't know but if there is any.. it really is an open ended question. Perhaps it should be a wake up call that too many talented kids are blowing out their arms by the time they reach high school due to the intensity and volume of games played through the summer and year. And sometimes it is just basic talent that isn't enough to make it to the big league or any skill at all. My advice - encourage your child to play a position that excel or show skill or interest in.. some coaches.. listen to their advice.. and have FUN!
Tony Horwitz
4:02 pm on Friday, June 10, 2011
I think Ross Baumgartner (pitched for White Sox) was the last NT grad who went on to the majors. He and John Castino Minnesota Twins) were contemporaries in the 1970s. John could have been a hall of famer if not for back problems that ended his playing career. Congrats to Charlie!!!