Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Catching Up with Michael Baird
04/06/2020 | 4:09:00 | Baseball
Michael Baird was a three-year starter for the Salukis before being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 2018 MLB Draft. In 2016, he was one of the most dominant starting pitchers in America, going 9-4 with a 1.76 ERA in 102 innings. Opponents hit just .206 against him. Now, after two seasons, he's been nearly as good in professional baseball, posting a 2.00 ERA over 94.1 innings in the minors. Former Saluki pitcher Henry Boeckmann caught up with Baird to check in on his time at SIU, his proudest moments, and his time in pro ball.Â
Can you give your Name and background at SIU and pro ball?
I was a part of the 2015-18 seasons at SIU. I was a starter for three of my years. After my senior year, I was drafted in the 23rd round to the St. Louis Cardinals and am now awaiting my third year in professional baseball.
Where did you all end up during the pro ball season?
I started the season in extended spring training with a minor injury; but once I was good to go, I played for the State College Spikes, the Peoria Chiefs, the Palm Beach Cardinals, and one outing with the Springfield Cardinals.
What was your favorite pro ball moment this summer? What was your favorite Saluki moment?
My favorite pro ball moment this past season was probably my no-hit, five inning start at High-A. I had a pitch count of 60 so I only went the five innings. And my favorite Saluki moment is probably my complete game, 1-hitter I had against Illinois my sophomore year.
How would compare your experience here at SIU to pro ball?
In pro ball you have a lot more control over what you need to do to prepare, and the workout schedule is different because you play every single day. At SIU, there was the challenge of balancing school and baseball. I loved my time in Carbondale and really appreciated the support from the University and Carbondale as a whole. Go Dawgs!
Previous Catching Up With Interviews: Yeager
