"It was the most surreal moment of my life," Tidaback said. "Growing up a Cubs fan, it's the biggest moment I've had in my life, and I couldn't be happier."
Tidaback prepped at Plainfield's Providence Catholic High School, began his collegiate career at Ball State and then transferred to Division II North Georgia after the 2014 season. He said he always thought of himself as a defensive catcher who enjoyed throwing guys out and blocking the plate. Offense was just a part of the game, hitting only .225 in 84 games in his two years at Ball State.