Mitch Glasser is not just living out his dream, he is living out mine. Born and raised in Chicago. Moved to Minnesota and then gets drafted by his favorite team, the Chicago White Sox. Seriously, I could not have scripted it any better. Mitch is a great guy and motivated by his dream of playing for the Sox (or running them someday). He also has deep Jewish roots which makes us at TCJewfolk even more of a fan. Here is the story of the life I have dreamed about since I was a kid, actually being lived out by Mitch Glasser.
1) Tell TCJ a little bit about yourself.
I’m 22 years old. I was born in Chicago and named after Cubs relief pitcher Mitch “Wildthing” Williams. My mom is a Sox fan, my dad is a Cubs fan. I grew up a Sox fan my whole life. When my dad brought me to the bleachers at Wrigley, I always wore my Sox stuff. Went to Macalester College—Psychology major and Religious studies minor.
2) What got you into baseball and when did you know you had a shot to play in college?
My Grandpa taught me how to play baseball at a young age. I have fond memories of playing catch and him throwing me tennis ball batting practice in my grandparents backyard. Although I’m lefty in everything, he made me a righty/righty in baseball. He claims it was so I could play more positions. I wish I hit lefty though.
3) What was draft day like?
It was surreal. I couldn’t watch, so I went to the cages (BASH sports academy) and had my buddy throw me batting practice. When I thought the draft was long done, my buddy from college texted me and said congrats. That was the first time I heard it!
4) What are your future baseball/life goals?
I love playing baseball. However, I think I’m a better coach. I would love to one day open up my own baseball academy. If that doesn’t work out, I guess I’d settle for becoming the 2nd greatest Jewish GM of all time.
5) Who would you rather start a team with Sandy Koufax or Hank Greenberg?
Easy question. Koufax so I wouldn’t have to face him. I heard his fastball rose in the air…No thank you.
6) Ian Kinsler or Ryan Braun?
Both. Hopefully they both play for Team Israel in the World Baseball Classic!
7) What was your Jewish upbringing like? How important is your Judaism?
I went to a Jewish day school in Chicago for 11 years. where I learned hebrew and Jewish tradition. In college I took a few classes about Jewish identity with an amazing Rabbi/Professor. There happened to be quite a few Jews on the Macalester baseball team. Some practiced more than others…practiced Judaism that is. We did several Shabbats together at my house.
8) What’s next for you?
I just got news that the White Sox are going to sign me for spring training 2013. I think I’ll do that…it’s only my dream
9) I recently moved to Minnesota, any places I should check out?
Crossroads Deli in Minnetonka! One of the best brunch buffets I’ve ever seen. And I’m a brunch guy. But what Jewish man isn’t? Also, you might want to check out Macalester College’s baseball field. It is one of the most interesting fields in the country—40 foot fences all the way around. That 3 feet taller than the Green Monster at Fenway.
10) I ask all Chicago athletes this; favorite Chicago style pizza?
Deep Dish at Bacinos in Lincoln Park.
11) Any thing else you want to tell TCJ?
The U.S. better look out for Team Israel in the World Baseball Classic.
Thank you to Mitch for his time. We at TCJ are hoping to see you in the Big Leagues soon.
Go Sox.
And Let Us Say…Amen.
