Interview with Michael Williams, former Kentucky Baseball player
By Danielle
Michael Williams, a recent draft pick of the Tampa Bay Rays, joined Wildcat Blue Nation to talk about closing up his Kentucky career.
Daniel Solzman: Thanks for joining Wildcat Blue Nation today. How are things treating you in Hudson Valley?
Michael Williams: It’s going great. We are 3-1 right now so I can’t complain about that.
Daniel Solzman: Can you talk about what it means to finish up your Kentucky career and get drafted by the Rays?
Michael Williams: I wanted to come back my senior year and help the program. What our team did this year, we made the regionals and set the record for wins. It was a good note to end on and get drafted. I’m just blessed and thankful to be a part of the Rays and start my career.
Daniel Solzman: Is there anything that Coach Gary Henderson taught that will stick with you for the rest of your career?
Michael Williams: He taught me a lot about growing up as a person. Like growing up and understanding the game of baseball better, respecting the game. Going out every day with the mental aspect of the baseball game is probably the most important part so I’ll forever be grateful for it.
Daniel Solzman: A few weeks ago, Kentucky played Kent State in a 21 inning game and it was not even televised. What goes through your mind as the game drags on?
Michael Williams: (Laughs) To be honest, it was really just end the game now. We had the opportunities and we didn’t get runs. It didn’t turn out our way but we competed and we gave it all we had. It didn’t go our way in the end but it was a well-fought game and that’s all I can say.
Daniel Solzman: You grew up in Knoxville and you just finished your Kentucky career. Were you a big Volunteers fan while growing up?
Michael Williams: To be honest, I was not. My brother was a big Vols fan. I just liked players growing up. I really didn’t have a favorite team or anything. Kentucky came at me in the spring and that’s where I ended up so I was proud of it
Daniel Solzman: I know it’s still early but what is Jared Sandberg like as a manager?
Michael Williams: He’s a great guy. He’s laid back and very intelligent, knows his stuff. He’s helping me out a lot. He’s a really good guy. He’s got a lot of energy. He wants to win, wants to get the players better, and is a player’s coach.
Daniel Solzman: What about batting coach Dan DeMent? Has he given you any pointers?
Michael Williams: They (The Rays) have a 30 day policy kind of thing. He gets us all here early and works with us. He keeps us focused and locked in before a game. He’s very bright and a great guy, too. I’m just glad to be a part of it.
Daniel Solzman: Who was your favorite player growing up?
Michael Williams: Yadier Molina because I liked the way he catches and the way he plays the game. I looked up to him in the way I caught and the way I played the game. He plays hard and plays every day. He’s a good leader on the field and that’s who I want to be.
Daniel Solzman: Thanks again for joining us and good luck with your career. Any final words for Big Blue Nation?
Michael Williams: I appreciate it and I’m just proud to be a part of Big Blue Nation. I look forward to the baseball season coming up, of course.