Q&A: Riley Self

Featured in the game program for this weekend's home series against Tulane, graduate student pitcher Riley Self talks about growing up as a Mississippi State fan, realizing his dream of becoming a Diamond Dawg and more.

Q: As a Mississippi State baseball fan growing up, what is your favorite MSU baseball memory?
RS: I got to go to Omaha in 2007 and watch them play in the College World Series when I was 10 years old. That was definitely my favorite Bulldog fan moment.

Q: How would your coaches and teammates describe you in one word, and why?
RS: Energetic. I always joke around, try to make everybody laugh at practice, and just have a good time. It makes practice go easier on everybody to have a good atmosphere.

Q: What is your go-to hype song while working out or getting ready for a big game?
RS: Many Men by 50 Cent

Q: At what age did you fall in love with the game?
RS: [I have loved baseball] as long as I can remember. My dad got me playing before I was even able to throw a ball, and I just fell in love with everything about it.

Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?
RS: Hopefully I will get drafted this year, and I'll be working my way up a major league system in five years.

Q: What is something most people don't know about you?
RS: I used to sing in church.

Q: What is your favorite sports movie?
RS: The Rookie with Dennis Quaid

Q: Is there any significance to the number you wear?
RS: Yes. Growing up a Mississippi State fan I watched Jonathan Holder, and he was my favorite pitcher that came out of that group of players. During high school, I got to pick my own baseball number, so I chose No. 14. I wanted to stick with it through college, so I actually had to call [former Bulldog teammate] Cole Gordon and ask his permission to get that number.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be?
RS: I would like to go to New York City. I've always wanted to go see Times Square and experience the chaos that's going on up there.

Q: What is your favorite baseball stadium snack?
RS: During our most recent Omaha trip, I got chocolate covered strawberries and brownie on a stick that was absolutely phenomenal.

Q: What is some advice you would tell your younger self to get to where you are now?
RS: I would tell myself to take in the moments that [go by fast], to really cherish those. Oh, and don't leave fast balls up in the zone.

Mississippi State University Athletics

Players Mentioned

Cole Gordon

Riley Self

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