June 2003

Up Close with catcher J.R. Riley

J.R. Riley was drafted in the 34th round of the 2003 June draft out of North Carolina State, where he obtained a degree in Business Management. In the offseason, he resides in Crestview, FL. The following interview was conducted by Public Relations Assistant Chuck Wade.

Chuck Wade: When did you begin playing baseball
J.R. Riley: Age 6

CW: What was your fondest memory before playing pro baseball?
JR: Playing in the 2003 NCAA Super Regionals against Miami University. That was a real special game, very intense and an overall great experience.

CW: Did you always want to play baseball in college?
JR: It was always a goal of mine to go to Omaha (for the college world series), to get an education, and to graduate with a degree. It was important to me that I get a degree for the simple reason of having something to fall back on if baseball doesn't work out.

CW: What was it like getting drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies?
JR: It was like the realization of a dream. Just a wonderful feeling, something that made all the years of baseball worth it. It was very satisfying; I knew my career had been a success.

CW: When you finish with baseball what do you want to do?
JR: Something involving financial advising, something in the business world.

CW: What do you occupy your time with when not playing for the Muckdogs?
JR: Golfing, Hunting, Fishing, listening to Country Music, enjoying life.

Page Created: 6-26-03

Page Last Updated: 6-26-03