Grizzlies still Searching for First Win

6/6/08

MARTINSVILLE, V.A. -- The Gastonia Grizzlies looked to earn their first win on the season against the Martinsville Mustangs, defensive miscues in the fourth inning helped the Mustangs win 13-5.

The Grizzlies would score first in the Collazo Inning (first inning) when Brandon Casamassima (Marshall) scored on a Josh Collazo (Oklahoma Baptist) double to give the Grizzlies an early 1-0 lead.

In the bottom of the second inning the Mustangs would tie it up when Ryan Self (East Tennessee State) would score on an throwing error by catcher Griffin Benedict (Georgia Southern) threw down to third base and the throw sailed over chester Wilson's (Southern Utah) head to tie the game at 1.

Chad Dawkins (Montreat) would give the Grizzlies the lead after scoring on a throwing error by Mustang's shortstop J.D. Davidson (Florida Tech) to make it a 2-1 ball game.

The Grizzlies for the second straight game in Martinsville had their defense self implode. The Mustangs would send 11 batters to the plate, and the Grizzlies would commit 3 errors. The first five would reach and score, in all the Mustangs would score six, making it a 7-2 game.

The Grizzlies would score a run in the sixth inning when Daniel Ford (Lenoir-Rhyne) singled and scored on a Kyle Behrendt (Wofford) single to cut the lead to 7-3. Scott Winglo (South Carolina) would get the offense going again in the seventh inning for the Grizzlies, by walking and advancing to second on a fielders choice. Casamassima then singled to right field to score Wingo and cut the lead to 7-4. Casamassima would score on a Ford single to cut the lead to 7-5.

Reliever Brian Greene (Montreat) looked good for his first 3 innings of work, retiring nine straight batters. The Mustangs were able to adjust and scored three runs the second time they faced Greene. Matt Schneider (Erskine) would walk and moved over to second base when Jeff Butler (Lafayette) was hit by a pitch. J.D. Davidson would then clear the bases with a triple to right-center field to give the Mustangs a 9-5 lead. Davidson would score on a Zach Boyette (Barton College) single to extend the lead to 10-5.

The Grizzlies (0-6) host the Asheboro Copperheads (6-2) on Saturday at 6:05.

Grizzlies announce Game and a Movie Night

6/6/08

GASTONIA, N.C. - The Gastonia Grizzlies will be holding a game and a movie night on Saturday night at 6:05, when the Gastonia Grizzlies host the Asheboro Copperheads.

Following the game, fans will be invited to sit on the field to watch “The Sandlot” on a 24’ x 20’ Screen. There will also be popcorn deals all night.

Fans have been coming out in record numbers to see the Gastonia Grizzlies this season.

On opening night the Grizzlies had their second highest attendance ever when 2115 fans cheered on the Grizzlies as they faced the rival Forest City Owls. Monday and Thursday of this past week had the highest attendance for those days in franchise history.

Some Grizzlies players are off to hot starts including, Daniel Ford (Lenoir-Rhyne) who leads the team with a .400 batting average, while Chad Dawkins (Montreat) leads the team with three stolen bases. Brent Davis (Saint Edwards) leads the pitching staff with eight strikeouts in nine and a third innings pitched.

Grizzlies Fall To 0-6

6/5/08

GASTONIA, N.C. - The Gastonia Grizzlies looked to earn their first win Wednesday night against the Forest City Owls, but despite four solid innings from starter Kaleb Herren (Oklahoma), the Grizzlies lost 11-4.

The Grizzlies have been plagued with the error and miscue bug and it stuck again on Wednesday. In the top of the fourth inning, Brian Fogle (Erskine) reached on a two out single and moved to third base on a Chris Nadeau (Miami of Ohio) single to right field. Grizzlies right fielder, Kyle Behrendt, thinking Fogle was going home, threw the ball over the Catcher Joey Stevens (Eastern Kentucky) head which allowed Fogle to score.

Grizzlies starter Herren went four innings allowing one run, zero earned, with a strike out.

The Owls added their second run in the fifth inning when Wade Moore (N.C. State) singled and scored on a fielders choice to give the Owls a 2-0 lead.

The Grizzlies answered with three runs of their own in the bottom of the sixth inning. Chad Dawkins (Montreat) walked, Brandon Casamassima (Marshall) singled to move Dawkins to second. Griffin Benedict (Georgia Southern) moved Dawkins over on a sacrifice fly to right field. Daniel Ford (Lenoir-Rhyne) then singled to drive in Dawkins. Casamassima scored on a Wilson fielders choice to tie the game at two. Ford would later score on a Kevin Mahoney (Canisus) error to give the Grizzlies a 3-2 lead.

The Owls would send 10 men to the plate in the seventh inning; all but one would reach safely. The runs began after a defensive miscue with the first batter Kevin Mahoney. Mahoney popped the ball up behind the plate and catcher Joey Stevens was called off by third baseman Brandan Casamassima and Casamassima could not reach the ball. With his second life Mahoney was able to single and begin the rally. The owls would score 5 runs in the seventh, and three more in the 8th.

The Grizzlies scored their final run in the bottom of the seventh inning when Scott Wingo (South Carolina) in his Grizzlies debut walked and scored on a Ford single to right field.

The Grizzlies (0-6) will travel to Martinsville tomorrow night to face the Mustangs (1-4) at 7:30 P.M.

Grizzlies Fall To 0-5

6/4/08

Martinsville, VA - The Gastonia Grizzlies and the Martinsville Mustangs met in a battle of the only winless teams left in the Coastal Plain League, unfortunately for the Grizzlies the Mustangs capitalized on a number of miscues and left the Grizzlies as the only winless team in the CPL.

The Mustangs used a series of miscues early on to gain an early 5-0 lead. The Mustangs scored two in the bottom half of the first inning when Bucky Smith (Kennesaw State), and Ryan LaPensee (Wayne State) scored on a Matt Schneider (Erskine) two run single to make it 2-0. The men got into scoring pitching after an error by third baseman Chester Wilson.

The second inning saw two miscues by Josh Collazo (Oklahoma Baptist) neither of which were errors, but three Mustangs would score; Jeff Butler (Lafayette), Zach Boyette (Barton College) and Smith to make it 5-0.

The Grizzlies would score their lone run in the top half of the first inning when Chad Dawkins ( Montreat) singled and would score on a Brandon Casamassima (Marshall) triple to make the score 5-1.

The Grizzlies’ bullpen looked great as Brian Greene (Montreat) and Chris Henderson (Lenoir-Rhyne) combined to allow two base runners in three and a third innings of work. Greene had a strike out and Henderson had two in the ninth inning.

The Grizzlies ran into hot pitching by the Mustangs as they only recorded two hits after scoring in the third inning. As the Grizzlies fell 9-1.

The Grizzlies (0-5) will host the Forest City Owls (3-2) Thursday night at 7:05.

Grizzlies Announce Flatulence Fun Night

6/3/08

GASTONIA, N.C. - The Gastonia Grizzlies will be holding the first ever Flatulence Fun Night on Thursday Night as the Gastonia Grizzlies will be hosting the Forest City Owls at 7:05, at Sims Legion Park.

Festivities include a Bean Burrito eating contest, a canned food drive (beans are preferred), and an on-field farting contest.  The Grizzlies will also be honoring the oldest fart in attendance.

To get in the spirit, fans will receive Grizzlies whoopee cushions as they enter the gates, and it promises to be a gas of a time.

Former Grizzlies Chief Operating Officer, Jack Thompson, who was known for his flatulence, will be in attendance and will be throwing out the ceremonial pitch.

For those fans who wish to distance themselves from the flatulence festivities, it will be Thirsty Thursday with dollar drink and beer specials all night.

Grizzlies Fall To 0-4

6/2/08

GASTONIA - N.C. The Gastonia Grizzlies looked to win their first game of the season, and despite a great outing by starter Brad Kledzik (Wake Forest), the Grizzlies fell to Asheboro for the second time in three days.

For the first time all season Gastonia did not score first. The teams were scoreless until the top of the fifth inning when Chris Ahern (Catawba) extended the inning with a two out single. After stealing second base, Ahern came around to score on a RBI single by Daniel Cooke to make it a 1-0 game.

Two innings later the Copperheads stuck for another run, again with two outs. Daniel Cooke (Gardner-Webb) walked and would score on a Ryan Query (Catawba) single to give the Copperheads a 2-0 lead.

Kledzik looked impressive in his Grizzlies debut but fell victim to a lack of run support. In seven innings of work Kledzik allowed two runs while striking out six.

In the ninth inning the Copperheads added an insurance run when Cooke doubled and scored when Query hit into a fielders choice which extended the lead to 3-0.

Gastonia would not be shut out, and looked for some ninth inning magic much like Saturday's game. With two outs in the ninth, Chester wilson (Southern Utah) singled and would score on Griffin Benedict's (Georgia Southern) double to cut the lead to 3-1. That would be all the offense the Grizzlies would get, as Dan Weller (UNC-Asheville) threw a complete game six hitter to get the victory.

The Grizzlies (0-4) travel to Martinsville (1-3) to battle the Mustangs on Wednesday at 7:05.

Grizzlies Late Rally Not Enough

5/31/08

ASHEBORO, N.C. – The Grizzlies looked on Saturday to snap a two game losing streak. After leading 1-0, the Grizzlies  fell into a deficit they could not overcome, and even with a ninth inning rally, fell to the Asheboro Copperheads 9-7.

Gastonia want to rename the first inning the Collazo inning, as Josh Collazo (Oklahoma Baptist) for the third straight game drove in a run in the first inning. Chad Dawkins (Montreat) reached on a leadoff single, and after Bryant Lopez (North Central Texas) grounded into a fielder’s choice, Daniel Ford (Lenoir Rhyne) singled.  Collazo then hit an RBI single to score Dawkins and gave the Grizzlies an early 1-0 lead.

Tyler Musselwhite (South Carolina) was extremely wild in the bottom half of the first, walking three men and throwing three wild pitches, one of which allowed Daniel Cooke (Gardner-Webb) to score and tie the game at 1.

The Copperheads struck for three in the third and sixth innings, highlighted by a Relly Mercurio (Texas Christian) 2-run double in the sixth inning, Mercurio would later score on a Kilby Perdomo (Frank Phillips CC) sacrifice fly, making the Copperhead’s lead 7-1.

Asheboro continued to increase their lead when Daniel Wagner (Belmont) scored on a Mercurio single in the seventh to make it 8-1.

The Grizzlies and Copperheads exchanged runs in the eighth inning. Gastonia’s Ford scored on a Chester Wilson (Southern Utah) single while the Copperhead’s Wagner scored on a Mercurio single to make it a 9-2 game.

The bats came alive for the Grizzlies in the top half of the ninth inning, but it was too little too late and the seven run deficit was too much to overcome. Payden Houser (Tusculum) , Dawkins, Lopez, and Ford would all score in the ninth and the Grizzlies would send all nine men to the plate, including six men reaching safely in a row.

With the go ahead run in the batter’s box, the Copperheads brought in Carson McLean (UNC-Asheville) to retire both Wilson and Kaleb Herren (Oklahoma), to give Asheboro the 9-7 win.

The Grizzlies (0-3) will host Asheboro (2-1) on Monday, June 2nd at 6:00 PM..

Grizzlies Deja Vu

5/30/08

Gastonia, N.C. - The Gastonia Grizzlies began their home season against the Forest City Owls at Sims Legion Park. Similar to last night's game the Grizzlies took an early 2-0 lead but the Owls again came back to win 4-2.

The Grizzlies scored in their half of the first inning. When Kyle Behrendt (Wofford) scored on a Josh collazo (Oklahoma Baptist) double making it 1-0. The lead would be extended in the second inning when Bryant Lopez (North Central Texas) scored on a Chad Dawkins (Montreat) single making it 2-0.

The pitching for Forest City then took over, as the Grizzlies only had seven men reach base after the second inning. Forest City's starter Heath Hembree (South Carolina) was solid, giving up three hits, two runs and striking out seven in six innings of work.

Grizzlies starter Kaleb Herren (Oklahoma) fell victim to small ball, as the Owls pushed across a run in each of the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh innings. In the fourth inning Allen caldwell (Clemson) scored on a Kevin Mahoney (Canisus) sacrafice fly to make it 2-1. Matthew Katich (Notre Dame) scored on a Taylor Black single in the fifth to tie the game at 2. In the sixth inning Kevin Mahoney scored on a Chris Nadeau single to center to give the Owls a 3-2 lead. The owls scored their final run in the seventh inning when Wade Moore (N.C. State) scored on a Jordan Petraitis RBI double.

The Gastonia Grizzlies (0-2) travel to Asheboro (1-1) on Saturday, May 31st at 7:05.

Grizzlies Fall to Owls 4-2

5/29/08

Forest City, N.C. - The Gastonia Grizzlies began their 2008 season against the Forest City Owls at the brand new McNair Field. While Gastonia took an early 2-0 lead and capitalized on an error, the Grizzlies could not hold the lead and lost 4-2.

The Grizzlies led after Daniel Ford (Lenoir-Rhyne) scored on a Josh Collazo (Oklahoma Baptist) RBI double in the top half of the first inning. Gastonia would add another in the third inning after Chad Dawkins (Montreat) reached on a fielding error and scored on a Ford single to extend the lead to 2-0.

Forest City answered with a run in the fifth inning after Grizzlies starter Brent Davis (Saint Edwards) walked Chris Nadeau with the bases loaded to make it 2-1. The Grizzlies tried to take momentum when the first two batters reached in the top half of the sixth inning, but Joey Stevens (Eastern Kentucky) grounded into a triple play to shift momentum toward the owls. The Owls went on to score three runs off of reliever Keith Para (Montreat) in the bottom half of the sixth inning due to three straight hits by Wade Moore, Jordan Petraitis, and Allen Caldwell (Clemson).

The Gastonia Grizzlies (0-1) host the Forest City Owls (1-0) on Friday, May 30th at 7:05.

The Grizzlies open their season May 30th, against the Forest City Owls. Opening night will feature giveaways all night including a five-night, two person cruise to the Bahamas on Carnivals Fascination. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Grizzlies front office at 704-866-8622 or by visiting www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

Grizzlies Sign Two More

5/21/08

GASTONIA, N.C. – The Gastonia Grizzlies Baseball Club announced today the signing of Brandon Casamassima and Keith Para.

Casamassima is a 6-0, 190-pound infielder from Marshall. This season he has scored 38 runs and stolen nine bases without being caught.

In 2007 at Marshall, Casamassima lead the Thundering Herd with 36 RBIs and 88 total bases.  He was among team leaders with eight home runs and a .447 slugging percentage.

Para is a 5-11, 190-pound right-handed pitcher for Montreat College.  He is one of two returning players for the Grizzlies joining Zac Kennedy. Last season Para was among team leaders with 2 wins, 60.1 innings pitched, and held opposing hitters to a .262 batting average.

Para is a former standout pitcher from Mohawk Valley Community College where he is tied for second on the all time list in games pitched with 19.

“We expect Brandon and Keith to be valuable players for us this summer,” said General Manager Jesse Cole. “Brandon can play shortstop and third and provides power in the lineup, while Keith comes to Gastonia with experience pitching in the Coastal Plain League.”

The Grizzlies open their season May 28th, against the Martinsville Mustangs. Opening night will feature giveaways all night including a five-night, two person cruise to the Bahamas on Carnivals Fascination. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Grizzlies front office at 704-866-8622 or by visiting www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

Grizzlies Sign Two Pitchers

Musselwhite Drafted by Braves in '06 & '07

5/19/08

GASTONIA, N.C. – The Gastonia Grizzlies Baseball Club announced today the signing of two pitchers; Tyler Musselwhite and Ian Waldron.

Musselwhite is a 6-4, 210-pound right-handed pitcher for the University of South Carolina Gamecocks.  He is a former Panhandle Conference Reliever of the Year for Chipola Junior College.

In 2007 at Chipola, Musselwhite pitched on the NJCCA National championship team.  He posted a 5-1 record in 65.1 innings pitched earning the Fireman Award and Second Team All-Conference honors.  Musselwhite was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the 29th round of the 2006 draft and in the 46th round of the 2007 draft.

Waldron is a 6-8, 230-pound right-handed pitcher for Arizona Western College. For the Matadors, he was among the leaders with five wins, 70 innings pitched, 42 strikeouts and a 3.73 ERA.

Waldron has recently signed to play for the Chico State Wildcats beginning in the fall. Chico State plays at the Division II level and has made the NCAA Championship Tournament each of the last four years and seven of the last 10 seasons.

"Both Ian and Tyler bring a lot of experience to our pitching staff,” says General Manager Jesse Cole.  "We expect them to bring veteran leadership to our team this summer.”

The Grizzlies open their season May 28th, against the Martinsville Mustangs. Opening night will feature giveaways all night including a five-night, two person cruise to the Bahamas on Carnivals Fascination. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Grizzlies front office at 704-866-8622 or by visiting www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

A Whole New Era in Grizzlies Baseball

5/13/08

GASTONIA, N.C. – The Gastonia Grizzlies begin their seventh season on May 28th, and fans will notice countless changes. Even the unchangeable Sims Legion Park has undergone a facelift.

Sims Legion Park has gone through its first major renovation since the Gastonia Cardinals moved in during the 1977 season. The highlight of the renovation is a new $300,000 state of the art video scoreboard, which will feature top quality video clips throughout the games. A new PA System and batting cage were also added during the renovation.

Fans will now experience a team and atmosphere only rivaled in the minor leagues, with promotions nobody wants to miss. From fireworks nights, Hannah Montana Night, to giving away a diamond ring from Diamond World and a five night cruise for two from Creative Travel; there is something for every member of the family. Ever dream about being a professional singer, then Grizzly Idol is right up your alley.

Forget dinner and a movie, try a game and a movie. After the June 7th game, “The Sandlot” will be played on a 24’ x 20’ projection screen. Other fun nights are Gorgeous Grandma day, which features a Grandma Beauty Pageant to crown the Grizzly Grandma of the year. Finally, Flatulence Fun Night, which will include a Bean Burrito Eating Contest and a Whoopee Cushion Giveaway.

The quality of players has also been improved, featuring six players that were previously drafted by the major leagues and players from the University of South Carolina, University of Kansas and Oklahoma.

Even the new food this season is getting a lot of buzz.  The Grizzlies are introducing the Krispy Kreme Donut Burger, which instead of a bun has a burger inside of a Krispy Kreme Donut; it’s Heart Stoppingly Delicious!! Philly Cheese Steak, Bruster's Ice Cream, and a pretzel bun have also been added to the revamped Bear Lair concession stand.

"Gaston County has tremendous baseball history," said General Manager Jesse Cole. "Our goal is to bring the excitement of baseball back to this area."

The excitement has caught on this year for the Grizzlies.  For the first time in team history, the Grizzlies have sold out of signage at Sims Legion Park as well as selling out all of the box seat season tickets.

The Grizzlies open their season May 28th, against the Martinsville Mustangs. Opening night will feature giveaways all night including a five-night, two person cruise to the Bahamas on Carnivals Fascination. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Grizzlies front office at 704-866-8622 or by visiting www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

Grizzlies Sign Closer

5/12/08

GASTONIA, N.C. – The Gastonia Grizzlies Baseball Club announced today the signing of Derek Ward, a 6-3, 190-pound pitcher from Louisiana-Monroe.

Ward was named to the 2008 National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association Stopper of the Year watch list, given to the top relief pitcher in Division I college baseball. As a junior he leads the Warhawks with 23 appearances, and six saves.

Ward transferred to Louisiana-Monroe after his sophomore year at Texarkana Junior College where he set the single season saves record with 12.

Growing up in Canfield, Arkansas, Ward helped his family raise 95,000 chickens on their chicken farm in a town with a population fewer than 200 people. Ward was named both All-Conference and All-State all four of his years at Bradley High School.

“Derek Ward has proved himself as one of the top closers in the country this season,” said General Manager Jesse Cole. “We expect him to be our go to guy this summer.”

The Grizzlies open their season May 28th, against the Martinsville Mustangs. Opening night will feature giveaways all night including a five-night, two person cruise to the Bahamas on Carnival’s Fascination. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Grizzlies front office at 704-866-8622 or by visiting www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

Grizzlies Sign Three Local Players

5/6/08

GASTONIA, N.C. – The Gastonia Grizzlies Baseball Club announced today the signing of three local players; Zac Kennedy, Brian Greene, and Chris Henderson.

Kennedy, a 6-0, 187-pound shortstop/second baseman, is a Gastonia native. After two years with the Northwest-Shoals Community College Patriots, he will be transferring to Campbell in the fall. A Coastal Plain League All Star last season, with 22 stolen bases. Kennedy leads the Patriots with 15 doubles, and is among the top three in runs, and triples.

Greene, a 5-10, 170-pound pitcher from Shelby, NC is a sophomore at Montreat College.   This past summer Greene was a Southern Collegiate League All-Star for the Morganton Aggies.  He leads the Cavaliers with 24 appearances; three saves, 58.1 innings pitched, and is tied for the team lead with six wins.

Henderson, a 6-2, 190-pound pitcher from Lincolnton, NC is a sophomore at Lenoir-Rhyne College. Henderson leads the Bears with 89.1 IP, 14 games started, and is in the top three in ERA, wins, and appearances.

“We are very excited about bringing in three top local players,” said General Manager Jesse Cole. “We expect Zac to bring us veteran leadership on the field and Brian and Chris should provide us with quality innings throughout the summer.”

The Grizzlies open their season May 28th, against the Martinsville Mustangs. Opening night will feature giveaways all night including a five-night, two person cruise to the Bahamas on Carnival’s Fascination. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Grizzlies front office at 704-866-8622 or by visiting www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

Grizzlies Players Receive Honors
Collazo, Koeneman named Players of the Year

5/5/08

GASTONIA, N.C.- Oklahoma Baptist University first baseman Josh Collazo was named Sooner Athletic Conference Player of the Year Saturday.

Collazo, a junior first baseman from Tampa, Fla., has driven in 100 runs and has 22 home runs on the season, while batting .432 this season. He established new single season records for both RBI and home runs. He also won the SAC Rawlings Gold Glove Award at first base.

The nation’s second-ranked baseball team, the Walters State Senators, racked up all of the major awards from the TJCCAA before the start of the NJCAA Region VII tournament.

Freshman Kyle Koeneman was honored as Freshman of the Year.  The former All-State performer from Seymour, is hitting .425 with 25 round-trippers, which is tied for the most in the nation.

Koeneman was also selected to the TJCCAA first-team all conference.  Freshman outfielder Chad Hunter was among five Senators named to the second team.

Diamond World "Dig for the Diamond" Highlights 2008 Promotions for Grizzlies

4/30/08

GASTONIA, N.C.- Gastonia Grizzlies General Manager Jesse Cole announced the team’s 2008 Promotional Schedule today.  The Schedule is highlighted by Diamond World “Dig for the Diamond”, as well as two fireworks displays, eight giveaway nights and the first ever “Grizzly Grandma Beauty Pageant”.

Diamond World “Dig for the Diamond” will be held during the Grizzlies final home game on August 3rd.  Before the game the Grizzlies will bury a Diamond Ring in the infield dirt and lucky fans will have the chance to dig for the diamond immediately following the game.

Other highlights include opening night on May 28th where the Grizzlies will have different giveaways between every inning including restaurant gift cards, whitewater center passes and other big time surprises that you don’t want to miss.

Monday June 2nd will be the first ever “Battle of the High Schools Homerun Derby”.  All the area high schools will compete to be crowned the Home Run Derby Champion of Gaston County.

Other promotions include “Flatulence Fun Night” with a whoopee cushion giveaway on June 5th, “Game and a Movie Night” with a movie being shown after the game on our huge 24’x 20’ projection screen, “Grizzly Grandma Beauty Pageant” on June 30th, “Papa John’s Free Pizza Night on July 24th, and “Hannah Montana Night” on July 25th.

The Grizzlies also have other giveaways including Grizzlies T-shirts (June 29th), Thunderstix (July 11th) Chizzle’s Bobblehead Giveaway (July 24th), Hannah Montana Microphones (July 25th), and Team posters (August 2nd).

“We have planned an action packed promotional schedule that we are very excited about," said General Manager Jesse Cole.  "There will be some things at the ballpark this season that many fans have never seen before which should be a lot of fun.”

The Grizzlies have also added a dunk tank in the ballpark this season and the 3rd inning of every game will be Dunk the GM inning.  The Grizzlies have brought in all new concession food for the summer and will offer new food items such as Philly Cheese Steaks, Brusters Ice Cream and the new Krispy Kreme “Grizzly Donut Burger.”  Yes, you read that correctly, we will grill a glazed donut and use that as a bun for our burger.  Fans will also have the option of having regular burgers this season as well.

The Grizzlies look forward to seeing everyone on Opening Night on May 28th as they attempt to sell out at Sims Legion Park.

Collazo Breaks Home Run and RBI Record

4/24/08

GASTONIA, N.C. – The Gastonia Grizzlies first baseman, Josh Collazo broke the home run and RBI record at Oklahoma Baptist University this week.  Collazo smashed his 19th and 20th home runs and knocked in his 88th RBI to grab sole possession of the single season records.

Collazo a 6-1, 250-pound junior from Tampa Florida is now batting .434 with 20 home runs and 88 RBIs on the year.  The previous single season record at OBU was 18 home runs and 79 RBIs held by Kevin Paxson in 1997.

Collazo also hit 14 home runs as a senior at Jefferson High School in Tampa and holds the Jefferson career home run record, breaking the mark that was previously held by former major league all-star, Tino Martinez.

The Grizzlies other first baseman Kyle Koeneman hit his 22nd home run of the year this past week giving the two Grizzlies first basemen a combined 42 home runs on the year.

“We are very happy for the success and honors that both Josh and Kyle have achieved this year,” said General Manager Jesse Cole.  “We can’t wait to see the shows they put on this year for the Grizzlies.”

Koeneman Named Player of the Week

Morristown, TN - Freshman 1st baseman Kyle Koeneman (Seymour, TN) has been named TJCCAA Player of the Week for his performance against Columbia State this past weekend.

For the weekend, Koeneman was 5-7, with 3 home runs, 6 runs scored, 3 runs batted in, 1 walk, and 1 HBP. Koeneman homered twice in the series final, a 13-12 victory on Sunday.

It is the second time Koeneman has earned the honor this season. On the year, Koeneman is hitting .427 with 18 HR and 45 RBI's.

Update: This past weekend Kyle Koeneman hit his fourth homer in three games and 22nd of the season.  In his last 19 games the former All-State standout has hit 17 home runs.

ULM Closer Derek Ward Named to NCBWA Stopper of the Year Watch List

4/17/08

STARKVILLE, Miss.—ULM junior closer Derek Ward has been named to the 2008 National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association Stopper of the Year Watch List. The award is given to the top relief pitcher in Division I college baseball.

The Lewisville, Ark., native is one of just 45 players named to the midseason watch list after recording six saves and four wins in 15 appearances this season for the Warhawks (24-12, 14-4 Sun Belt).

Ward leads ULM with a 2.18 ERA on the season and has struck out 32 batters while walking just 12 in 33.0 innings of work.

The list features teams representing 19 athletic conferences as well as one independent team. The Atlantic Coast Conference leads the way with six pitchers on the honor squad.

The watch list was compiled from nominations submitted by sports information contacts and conference media relations offices nationwide. At the conclusion of regular season competition, the NCAA Division I saves leader and four other relief pitching standouts will be selected as the finalists for the award and announced May 28 prior to the start of NCAA regional competition. The winner of the 2008 Stopper of the Year Award will be selected by the NCBWA’s All-America Committee and announced Wednesday, June 4, two days before NCAA Super Regional play begins.

Grizzlies Need Host Families

The Grizzlies still need 10 host families for their players for the 2008 season.   Players report on May 25th and will live in Gastonia through early August.

All that is required is a spare bedroom for them to sleep in.  The players are responsible for their food and transportation.

“This is a great chance to potentially get to know a future major leaguer,” said General Manager Jesse Cole.

Host families also receive season tickets and a gift at the end of the season.  If you are interested in becoming a host family call the Grizzlies front office at (704) 866-8622 or by visiting the Grizzlies online at www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

Grizzlies Announce Reading Program

4/14/2008

GASTONIA, N.C. - The Gastonia Grizzles are pleased to announce the 2008 Home Run Reading Challenge presented by Gastonia Pediatric Associates. 

The Grizzlies, who open their seventh season in the Coastal Plain League on May 28th, are partnering with Gastonia Pediatric Associates to bring their first ever reading program to Gaston County Title One Elementary schools.  “We are very thankful to Gastonia Pediatric Associates for helping us introduce our first ever reading program,” said Assistant General Manager Jamie Curtis.  “They have had a tremendous influence in Gastonia over the years and their participation in our reading program shows their continued dedication to Gastonia’s youth.”  Other sponsors include George Pappa’s Liberty Lanes, Adventure Landing, and Texas Roadhouse

The program begins Monday, April 14, 2008 and ends Friday June 13, 2008 and will reach over 300 classrooms averaging 23 students per classroom.  During this period, students will have to opportunity to earn prizes for reaching certain reading levels.  There are four levels for reading: first base, second base, third base, and home run. Each level is determined by each individual teacher based on his or her students current reading levels. 

“The Grizzlies are extremely excited to bring the reading program to Gaston County schools,” said Assistant General Manager Jamie Curtis.  “We want to reach the community on a whole new level and we feel this is a perfect opportunity for us.”

Every participating student and teacher will receive a free ticket to Reading Night at Sims Legion Park on June 10th as a thank you from the team.   Fans who donate books at the front gate will receive $1.00 off General Admission tickets. 

Grizzlies Announce New Mascot

4/7/08

GASTONIA, N.C. - The Gastonia Grizzlies Baseball Club announced today the signing of new mascot Chizzle to a 5-year contract.  Chizzle, a 6’5” 250 pound grizzly bear mascot comes to Gastonia after working as a model and professional weight lifter in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Chizzle replaces 6-year mascot Striker who was recently released by the Grizzlies for failing to have a presence in the community.  Striker was also found linked to the steroid scandal in George Mitchell’s report.

Chizzle is known for his strength and fun loving attitude and plans to compete this year in the World’s Strongest Mascot competition.  Before signing with the Grizzlies Chizzle was tested for steroids and BGH (Bear Growth Hormone) and came up completely clean.

“As you can tell Chizzle is one of the most physically fit mascot’s we have ever seen, said General Manager Jesse Cole.  It is a true testament to his work ethic and determination as his ultimate goal is to be the best mascot in the world.”

“We are very excited about bringing Chizzle aboard for the 2008 season. He will bring a lot of excitement to Sims Legion Park and we expect him to be all around the community for many years to come.”

Before coming to Gastonia Chizzle spent 3 years as a backup dancer for Britney Spears and plans to use some of his famous moves this summer in Gastonia.

We all can’t wait to see them Chizzle!  Opening night is less than 2 months away.

In addition, Bonds made sure to have in his contract that he will not be required to run hard at any time during the season and will receive a personal lounge chair in the dugout.

“Our goal is to provide Barry with every opportunity to succeed and get back to the major leagues, said General Manager Jesse Cole. We want to make him feel comfortable and welcome in Gastonia. We have already set him up with a host family for the 2008 season where he will have spare bedroom as well as his own shower.”

“This should be a tremendous draw for the people of Gastonia and we believe that Bonds’ fan friendly demeanor and love for the game will become infectious and bring the excitement of baseball back to Gastonia.”

We can’t wait to see you all on opening day on May 28th as Bonds attempts to hit his first and most important home run with the Gastonia Grizzlies.

Grizzlies Sign Two Players Drafted in 2007

3/31/08

GASTONIA, N.C. - The Gastonia Grizzlies Baseball Club announced today the signing of Sam Freeman from the University of Kansas and Johnny Hellweg from the Florida Community College at Jacksonville.  Freeman was selected in the 24th round of the 2007 Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals but elected to attend the University of Kansas.  Hellweg was selected in the 46th round by the Florida Marlins out of St. Dominic high school in St. Charles, Missouri.

Freeman, a  5’11” 170 pound LHP starred at North Central Texas junior college in 2007 before becoming a Kansas Jayhawk.  Freeman was 10-1 with 3.20 ERA and had 50 K’s in 50 innings while being named All-conference. 

This spring Freeman is leading the Jayhawks with a 4-0 record, to go along with 16 strikeouts and only 8 walks.

“Sam is a top of the line starter and we are very excited to have him in Gastonia, said General Manager Jesse Cole.  With a fastball in the low 90’s coming from the left side Sam should draw even more attention from professional scouts this summer.”

Hellweg, a 6’8” 210 pound RHP is a freshman at Florida Community College in Jacksonville.  As a senior at St. Dominic high school, Hellweg topped out at 94 mph. 

Hellweg is 1-2 at FCCJ this spring with 24 Strikeouts in 22 innings. 

“At 6’8” and with a fastball in the low 90’s Johnny has everything it takes to be a successful pitcher at not only this level but at the professional level, said General Manager Jesse Cole.  Johnny still needs to work on his command and control and if he puts it together this summer he could be dominant.”

The Grizzlies have now signed five players who have previously been drafted by major league teams.  In addition to Freeman and Hellweg, Joey Stevens (Diamondbacks '07), Chester Wilson (Royals '05), and Brent Davis (Orioles '05)  have all been selected in the major league draft.

Grizzlies Update

Sophomore LHP Mark Cohoon (North Central Texas) fired a no-hitter last week and struck out 12 in defeating Brookhaven junior college.

Junior first basemen Josh Collazo (Oklahoma Baptist) continued his torrid hitting by hitting two more homeruns this past weekend.  Collazo is batting .422 to go along with 13 homeruns and 63 RBI’s through 35 games.

Junior outfielder Deric Manrique (Northern Iowa) came back from an early season injury to go 3-4 with a homerun, 2 doubles and 5 RBI’s in his first game back.  Manrique is batting .536 with 2 homeruns 10 RBI’s and 5 stolen bases through 8 games.

Chad Hunter and Kyle Koeneman (Walters State) each hit their 10th homeruns of the season this past weekend.  Hunter also stole 2 bases to give him 24 on the season.

A few Grizzlies are among Division 1 leaders in statistics as released by the NCAA on March 23rd.

Freshman Infielder Scott Wingo (South Carolina) is 1st in the country in HBP per game at 0.65 and 4th in the country in HBP with 11.  He is also 24th in the country in On Base Percentage at .548.

Junior Catcher Griffin Benedict (Georgia Southern) is 14th in the country in homeruns with 8.

Junior closer Derek Ward (Louisiana Monroe) is 8th in the country in Saves with 5.

Season Tickets are on sale for $75 through April 15th.  Family plans are $100 and include four tickets to seven of the biggest home games and dinner for the family.  You can secure your tickets right now by calling the Gastonia Grizzlies front office at (704) 866-8622 or by visiting the Grizzlies online at www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

Mark Cohoon

Derek Ward

Sims Park getting state-of-the-art scoreboard...for free

March 19, 2008 - 8:08PM

By Phillip Gardner

GASTONIA - Since the Gastonia Grizzlies' first season in 2002, workers have clumsily tried to update the manual scoreboard like a gas station employee changes the displayed price of a gallon of unleaded.

The workers use a special pole to grasp a small numbered panel, stretch it high over their heads and gently place the number in the appropriate spot on the board. Few people have successfully updated the number of runs, hits and errors in a timely fashion. Nobody has made it look easy.

Those days will soon be over.

The city of Gastonia is close to finalizing a deal with a sign company that would build a $300,000 scoreboard and video screen at the city-owned Sims Legion Park, home of the Coastal Plain League's Grizzlies.

The best news? The scoreboard would cost the city nothing.

"This is a top-of-the-line, $300,000 scoreboard pretty much donated to use at our field," Grizzlies general manager Jesse Cole said. "This is the real deal. We really can't wait until opening night because it's going to add to the atmosphere at Sims."

Lipscomb Signs, based in Forest City, would provide the scoreboard and sell video advertisements to pay for it.

According to a lease agreement that has yet to be signed, Lipscomb Signs would keep all advertising revenue generated by the scoreboard for the first three years. In the fourth year, the company would keep 75 percent of the advertising revenue and give 25 percent to the city of Gastonia. The fifth year would be a 50-50 split.

At the end of the fifth year, Gastonia would have the option to purchase the scoreboard at half price or continue with one-year leases at a 50-50 revenue split.

Cole and Gastonia Parks and Recreation director Chuck Dellinger presented the scoreboard plan to the city council Monday and have cleared all local hurdles to pursue the project. Dellinger hopes to have the lease signed by the end of the week.

Gerald Lipscomb, owner of Lipscomb Signs, said on Wednesday he was waiting for his attorney to complete the lease.

"I'd say it's a 95-percent done deal," Lipscomb said. "There's just a few little things that we have to look at."

The scoreboard would measure 24 feet, 9 inches tall and 36 feet wide. It would feature a video display measuring 8 feet, 10 inches tall and 16 feet, 2 inches wide. The scoreboard would read "Sims Legion Park" across the top and include a Gastonia Grizzlies logo to the left of the video screen.

The scoreboard would also display score by innings, runs, hits, errors, balls, strikes and outs.

"It's not quite as sophisticated as a JumboTron, but it's close," Dellinger said.

The existing electronic scoreboard in right field at Sims Park displays only the score, balls, strikes and outs. That's why the Grizzlies try to update the manual scoreboard in left field, too.

All parties involved are hopeful the scoreboard can be in place by the Grizzlies' May 28 home opener, but Lipscomb said they'll be cutting it close.

Lipscomb Signs can build the scoreboard in 30 days but must order the electronic components from Daktronics. Those parts take six weeks to arrive. Lipscomb planned to order them this week, he said.

Lipscomb Signs would also handle the advertising sales. Advertisers buying the season package would pay $3,995 for a five-second message displayed 50 times each game. The Grizzlies will play 28 home games from May 28 through Aug. 4.

Of the 50 video spots available, Lipscomb Signs would offer the first 25 to community businesses before opening the remaining spots to national advertisers, Lipscomb said.

Lipscomb Signs would not contact the Grizzlies' current sponsors unless those advertisers want to pay for both the traditional outfield banners and the new video ads.

"That's the biggest thing is all the groups we do a lot of advertising with they don't touch," Cole said.

The scoreboard would also be operational for American Legion and youth baseball games.

Sims Legion Park hosts about 175 games each year, Dellinger said.

The Forest City Owls, also owned by Grizzlies owner Ken Silver, have installed a similar scoreboard for their upcoming inaugural season.

 New scoreboard at Sims

The City of Gastonia and Lipscomb Signs in Forest City are nearing an agreement that would bring a $300,000 scoreboard to Sims Legion Park this summer. Here are some quick facts about the scoreboard:

Features: Video display, score by innings, runs, hits, errors

Dimensions: 24 feet, 9 inches tall by 36 feet wide

Video screen dimensions: 8 feet, 10 inches tall by 16 feet, 2 inches wide

City of Gastonia cost: Nothing

Projected completion date: May 28

Advertising price: $3,995 per five-second ad displayed 50 times per game for the entire season

When asked about having Scott Wingo start as a true freshman, South Carolina head coach Ray Tanner said, “Scott Wingo is not your typical freshman. He has energy, he has confidence, and he doesn’t have the freshman jitters that a lot of young people go through.”

In high school Wingo starred at Mauldin High School in Greenville, South Carolina where he was named to the All-State team as a senior.  Wingo also played on the North Carolina/South Carolina select team.

“We are very excited about bringing a top player from a program like South Carolina to Gastonia this summer, said General Manager Jesse Cole.  I think our fans will really enjoy watching Scott play this season.  He is an outstanding defensive shortstop and should also be a spark plug for our offense.”

Opening night tickets will go on sale Friday March 14th at noon and can be secured by calling the Gastonia Grizzlies front office at (704) 866-8622.  Select Grizzlies’ box seat season tickets are still available and can be purchased by calling the office.

First Basemen Kyle Koeneman (Walters State) and Josh Collazo (Oklahoma Baptist) continued their torrid hitting.  Koeneman hit 2 home runs this weekend to give him 5 on the season.  Josh Collazo hit 2 home runs and had 10 Runs batted in this weekend.  On the season Collazo is batting .419 with 10 home runs and 44 RBI’s through 17 games.

The Grizzlies are looking for Host Families for our players in 2008.  All that is required is a spare bedroom for them to sleep in.  The players are responsible for their food and transportation.  Host families also receive season tickets and a gift at the end of the season.  If you are interested in becoming a host family call the Grizzlies front office at (704) 866-8622 or by visiting the Grizzlies online at www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

“We are excited about bringing Chad and Kyle in from a great program like Walters State.  We expect them to be a key part in our lineup in 2008,” said General Manager Jesse Cole.

Grizzlies Update: Current Grizzlies Josh Collazo and Joey Stevens are off to great starts in the 2008 season.  Josh Collazo of Oklahoma Baptist University was recently named Sooner Athletic Conference Player of the Week.

Collazo, a junior first baseman from Tampa, Fla., drove in 17 runs and scored 11 more in leading Oklahoma Baptist to a 5-1 record for the week.  Collazo batted .400 with four walks and four home runs.  He has home runs in each of his last four games.

Joey Stevens who recently signed with Eastern Kentucky is off to a hot start at Pensacola Junior College.  The sophomore catcher is batting .441 with 5 doubles and 9 Runs batted in through the first eight games. 

Grizzlies Sign Arizona Diamondbacks Draft Pick 1/29/08 GASTONIA, N.C. – The Gastonia Grizzlies Baseball Club announced today the signing of sophomore catcher Joey Stevens from Pensacola Junior College.  The Arizona Diamondbacks selected the 6-foot-4 catcher in the 32nd round of the 2007 draft. Stevens recently signed a letter of intent to play next season at Eastern Kentucky University after being named 1st Team All Panhandle Conference and a national Junior College all-star at Pensacola. Eastern Kentucky head coach Elvis Dominguez said, “The one thing Joey has been able to do at every level is hit and hit with power. He should be able to step in and drive in a bunch of runs for us right away.”

As a freshman Stevens hit .351 with 8 homeruns and 38 runs batted in. Before attending Pensacola, Stevens was a standout at Trinity Christian Academy in Middleburg, Florida where he hit .481 with three homeruns as a senior.

“Joey is one of the premier power hitting catchers in the country, said general manager Jesse Cole.  We really look forward to seeing what he can do in Gastonia this summer.”

Season tickets are on sale for $75 through January 31.  Family plans are $100 and include four tickets to seven of the biggest home games and dinner for the family.  You can secure your tickets right now by calling the Gastonia Grizzlies front office at (704) 866-8622 or by visiting the Grizzlies online at www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

Grizzlies Sign Baltimore Orioles Draft Pick 1/23/08 GASTONIA, N.C. – The Gastonia Grizzlies Baseball Club announced today the signing of 6’2’’ RHP Brent Davis from St. Edwards University in Texas.  In 2005 the Baltimore Orioles drafted Davis in the 48th Round out of Clear Lake High School in Houston.  Davis is the second player from the Grizzlies to be drafted in 2005 joining Chester Wilson who was also selected in the 48th round. The past two seasons Davis has played at junior college powerhouse San Jacinto.  He was injured this past season but did strike out 4 batters in 3 innings. Davis is expected to be a conference starter for St. Edwards after an outstanding fall.

“We expect Brent to be a very valuable pitcher for us this summer, said General Manager Jesse Cole.  Brent brings a plus fastball and an above average breaking ball and has experience both as a starter and a closer.”

Season tickets are on sale for $75 through January 31.  Family plans are $100 and include four tickets to seven of the biggest home games and dinner for the family.  You can secure your tickets right now by calling the Gastonia Grizzlies front office at (704) 866-8622 or by visiting the Grizzlies online at www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

Season tickets are on sale for $75 through January 31.  Family plans are $100 and include four tickets to seven of the biggest home games and dinner for the family.  You can secure your tickets right now by calling the Gastonia Grizzlies front office at (704) 866-8622 or by visiting the Grizzlies online at www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.