Ryley Gilliam is a sophomore pitcher from Kennesaw, Ga. Not only has Gilliam done well with his appearances on the mound for the Tigers this season but the lefty was recently one of the three Clemson pitchers who combined for 23 strikeouts in a 13 inning victory against Elon, setting a new school-record for most strikeouts in one game.
The Clemson Insider got the chance to speak with Gilliam and learn about some of his interests off of the field.
Who is your favorite MLB player and why?
Gilliam: “Marcus Stroman right now because he’s small like me and he has an electric arm, electric curveball and he really competes. I try to compete like him.”
When you’re not playing baseball what are you doing?
Gilliam: “Definitely playing video games with my friends. Seth, Grayson, crushing Rocket League, half the team is playing Rocket League so it’s a fun time.
Do you have any hidden talents that most people don’t know about?
Gilliam: “I can do impressions very well.” (see video below)
Really? Anybody in particular?
Gilliam: “Captain Jack Sparrow. I mean I guess I can give you a little something.”
(Ryley then proceeded to show TCI his best Jack Sparrow impression!)
What’s your favorite movie?
Gilliam: “I’d probably have to go with Memento or Fight Club.”
What’s your best memory at Clemson so far?
Gilliam: “That game. That’s definitely my best memory so far. That was huge.”
(This was after Clemson beat Elon in 13 innings. Gilliam came in from the bullpen and pitched 4.1 innings that game. He gave up one hit, no runs, and struck out nine. His nine strike outs were a part of the school record Clemson set that night for most strikeouts in one game (23).)
What’s the one food you can’t live without?
Gilliam: “Chipotle bowls. The guac.”
Your pregame playlist- what’s that like?
Gilliam: “Mixing a little Frank Sinatra, you know go a little old school with some Dø, a little Metallica, a little Avenged Sevenfold.”
How would your friends describe you?
Gilliam: “Well my nickname on the team is “Squirrel” because I’m kind of really hyper all of the time. I’m energetic so I bring the team up with that. That’s why they gave me the nickname.”
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