Monday, December 24, 2012

A look back at the 2012 Gateway Grizzlies

Hello all!  With 2012 coming to a close in almost one week, it's time to take a look back at the year that was in Gateway Grizzlies Baseball.  Here's a 'Best Of' list for 2012.  Hope you enjoy! 


Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Best moment of 2012: This one is an easy selection.  The best moment came on a day when the Grizzlies didn't even play a game.  It was August 31st and the Grizzlies magic # to win the division was at 1..the Grizzlies had their first and only rain out of the season, but with the magic # at 1, the team gathered at a local bar and listened to the Washington/Schaumburg radio broadcast together.  The Wild Things cruised to a win and all the players, coaches and staff celebrated when the final out was recorded.  It was an unbelievable night that I will never forget.  The night the West was won - 8/31/12. 

Worst moment of 2012: It still pains me to listen to this clip.  The Grizzlies were one out away from advancing to the Championship series.  They led Game 4 of the Divisional series 5-1 before Florence scored 6 unanswered runs, including a 3-run walk off HR by Drew Rundle with the Freedom down to their final out in the game AND series.  Here's the Radio Highlight from the Rundle HR..notice the tone in my voice.  I was frustrated..to say the least.
Drew Rundle Walk Off HR Game 4 Divisional Series

Best play of 2012:  Jonathan Johnson, you are superman!  'JJ' made a thrilling catch near the home team bullpen at GCS Ballpark during the season.  This was one of many great plays from Johnson during the season, but this one certainly sticks out.  Here's the Radio Highlight..
Jonathan Johnson Defensive Play of the Year 2012

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Best game in 2012: It was the first playoff game for the Grizzlies since 2008 and Gateway delivered in a big way.  Phil Warren's team jumped out to a 1-0 series lead with an impressive win @ GCS Ballpark in Game 1 of the Divisional Series against the Florence Freedom.  Here's Radio Highlights from that playoff win!   
Grizzlies Game 1 Divisional Series Radio Highlights

Best series in 2012: With the West Division as tight as ever, the Grizzlies picked up a HUGE road sweep @ Windy City in late August to grab the lead in the West Division.  Some would say it was the biggest series for the team in recent memory, and boy did they deliver.  Below are Radio Highlights from the series.  
Grizzlies Radio Highlights @ Windy City


Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Best individual performance in 2012: Rogelio Noris tied a Grizzlies franchise record w/ 3 HR's in a game @ Traverse City late in the season to lead Gateway to a BIG win that helped them avoid getting swept.  Wuerfel Park is a big yard, but Rogelio treated it like his backyard that night in late August.  One of the best performances in team history!

Best trade in 2012: Ahh, Mr. Noris.  Rogelio was acquired by the Grizzlies roughly 25 games into the season, and boy was he exactly what the team needed.  Noris became the big bat the Grizzlies needed in the middle of their order and the team took off when he came to town.  This is an easy selection..some would say it's the biggest trade in team history.  Here's a highlight of one of Rogelio's many HR's in 2012!   Rogelio Noris HR @ Southern Illinois 

Surprise player in 2012: Rookie reliever Zac Treece came to Gateway after an impressive college career, but no prior pro experience.  No one knew how this tall, lanky right-hander would handle the transition from college to the pro's.  Boy did he handle it well.  Treece finished the season with an ERA just over one and was named the Frontier League Rookie of the Year.  He was one of the best pitcher's in the league in 2012..can't wait to see what he has in store for an encore in 2013.

Hope you enjoyed this post.  Looking forward to 2013..here's hoping this is the year the Grizzlies capture a Championship!

    -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Monday, December 17, 2012

Grizzlies Make Roster Moves Leading Up to 2013 Season

Hello all!  The Grizzlies have made some roster moves lately as Manager Phil Warren continues to put together his 2013 Spring Training roster.  Warren has re-signed bullpen arms Phillip Reamy and Ja'Vaun West, while adding new arms in Dan Eaton and Wes Edwards.

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com
Reamy returns to Gateway after dominating out of the bullpen in 2012.  The right-hander from Centreville, VA was solid from start to finish in his first professional season.  Reamy, who throws high-80's/low-90's with a natural cut to his fastball could compete for the Grizzlies closer role in 2013.  After all, that's what he did in college when he became the all-time saves leader at Embry-Riddle University.  Reamy had an ERA just over 2 in 2012, but I think the Grizzlies can expect even more from Reamy next season.  He's one of those guys who turned the heads of many scouts who saw him pitch, so if Reamy gets off to a hot start next season, I wouldn't be surprised if he got some serious looks @ affiliated ball.

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com
West was also solid out of the bullpen for Gateway in 2012.  He appeared 17 times out of the the 'pen after starting 3 games to be begin his professional career.  It was clear that something wasn't clicking for him as a starter, but he turned his season around as a long/middle reliever.  He may get another shot to start in spring training..we'll see.  I do know this..West is extremely talented and has a confident, aggressive approach that you don't see to often in young pitchers.  He goes right after hitters.

Photo courtesy of Embry Riddle Sports Information
Eaton and Edwards are rookies who finished up their collegiate careers in 2012.  Eaton comes to Gateway based on a recommendation from Reamy (the two played together @ Embry-Riddle).  Eaton is a big lefty (6-5, 195) and at the moment is the only left-handed pitcher on the Grizzlies roster (they only had one last year..Logan Mahon..who since has been signed by the Orioles).  He won 7 games last season and had an ERA around 2.50.  He dominated @ the NAIA level.  Can he get hitters out at the pro level?  We'll see in May.

Edwards pitched @ Division II Winston-Salem State University and is also big (6-4, 205).  He pitched primarily out of the bullpen during his career @ WSS, but it looks like he could also start.  With that said, he's projected to be a 'pen guy.  From what I've read/been told is he hasn't quite reached his potential yet and has electric stuff (throws hard/good movement).  The Grizzlies are looking for rookies to step up and pitch like Reamy, West and other rookies did in 2012.

Stay tuned for more announcements/signings in the near future.  Go Grizzlies!

      -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Sportscasting Advice To College Students

Hello all!  Time to switch things up a little bit.  The majority of my posts on here are Grizzlies related and the few that aren't usually involve one of the colleges I call games for.  This time, I'm going to switch gears.  With a lot of people graduating from college this week, I figured I would write about sportscasting and what it takes to succeed after college.  By no means do I know it all (heck, I'm only 24) but I think I have a pretty good idea of what it takes to make it in this business.  Getting started in the business as a young sportscaster is something I think about often and have a lot of opinions on..so here I go.  Warning: This will be a long post and you may disagree with some of the things I write, but I'm going to write anyway!

First off, I love this business.  It's tough and grueling with long hours (like many professions) and it's competitive as heck.  "So you think you want to be a sportscaster?" is a question that a lot of veterans in the business will ask a youngster when they first talk about getting into it.  I never discourage someone from going into sportscasting, but I'll be straight up honest with them when they ask me questions.  Be ready for rejection, because it happens to everyone.  Don't expect to be good when you start (no one is).  If you don't have drive, thick skin and a strong work ethic, forget about it.

The key to succeeding in the business starts in college.  Now more than ever, college students need to graduate from college with a strong resume.  It doesn't have to be loaded with on-air work, but it must be loaded with real world experience.  That coupled with strong references and the willingness to start anywhere in the country will serve you well.  When I was in college, all I thought about was how I could put myself in a position to succeed when I left Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.  Every job I worked in college was in the radio or TV business.  I worked long hours for little or no pay and somehow, someway managed to get by.  I lived off peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and GT Cola (seriously..my friends still get a kick out of that) but I knew that all my work would pay off.  If you aren't getting real world experience and building your resume in college, your career will be over before it even begins in sports broadcasting.  I mentor a young high school broadcaster who visits GCS Ballpark twice a summer and watches me do my work.  He travels in all the way from Springfield, IL and reminds me of myself at a young age.  He has amazing drive..he has goals and dreams..he gets it.  He's building a strong resume in HIGH SCHOOl folks..before he even gets to college.  I constantly remind him that when he gets to college he is going to be way ahead of pretty much everyone.  Don't get behind..start early.  If you can't find a job anywhere..get a recorder, sit in the stands at high school games and broadcast mock games.  Many have done it, heck I did it.  In college I hadn't called a bball game in a year so I sat in the top row of the bleachers @ Edwardsville High School and called games on Friday night's I was off work.  Go the extra mile to enhance your career.

Campus radio is where it needs to start.  Most colleges have campus radio stations.  SIUE does, and the reason I went to SIUE was because of the campus radio station and the fact they had (still do) credentials to the St. Louis Cardinals, Rams and Blues.  I was able to start covering those team's when I was an 18-year-old the summer before I began college.  I also met with the News/Sports Director and the GM before I chose SIUE and I hit it off with them from the start.  Campus radio is where you should get your start and make your mistakes.  Get all the bad stuff out of the way in college.  Learn, improve and work your tail off.  I practically lived at the SIUE campus radio station when I was in college.  I wasn't the most talented student there, but I can guarantee you no one worked harder than me.  Before class, I was there...between classes, I was there..after classes, I was there.  I grinded for four years and became extremely close to the Director Tom Dehner and the GM Frank Akers.  Tom, who recently retired did a feature on me in May 2011.  It stems from a thank you card I gave him when I was done with college.  I wrote him a letter..told him how much he meant to me.  He gave me my start in radio and taught me everything.  When he talked, I listened.  I'll never forget the day I told him goodbye before leaving for N.C.  It was the week before I was going to walk at graduation and leave for Fayetteville the next morning.  I told him thank you, him and I stared at each other for a couple seconds standing about 10 feet away from each other.  He started to choke up when talking, I did the same..we started to hug and next thing you know we are both crying.  Tears of joy of course.  A 60-year-old man who had put in 30-plus years in the biz and a 22-year-old about to embark on his post-college career.  I had tears because of how much he meant to me and the fact that that I had put my heart and soul into that station.  I'll never forget that moment..and I'll never forget what Tom did for me.  Below is the feature he did.

Tom Dehner Feature

You must love this to do it.  Most men in the world like sports..not all, but most.  That doesn't mean sportscasting is automatically for you.  Most, not all, who go into the business have stories of wanting to do this their whole life.  They were broadcasting the neighborhood games in their backyard as kids (I was no different) and always knew they would be doing this.  I love coaching basketball and if I wasn't doing this that's what I would've done for a career.  I also would enjoy teaching (I still would like to teach later on in my life..sportscasting class of course), but nothing is more enjoyable than calling a game.  It's a rush, I get zoned in and I don't think about anything else.  Believe it or not, I like preparing for the game just as much as I love calling it.  The key word is love..if you don't love it, this business will eat you up quick.  I moved 14 hours away to North Carolina the day after my college graduation.  I knew I needed to be there to continue and advance my career.  I left everything behind and did it without hesitation.  I love this business and that's needed to succeed.   

Have goals and dreams.  Be ambitious..don't let people tell you that you can't do something.  Don't change your goals until they are no longer attainable.  My goals are something I think about every day.  I have a goal to be in a certain position when I'm 26 and I won't stop until I get there.  Dream big.  Yes, this business is difficult and competitive, but with dedication and hard work, you can achieve anything.

This business can be tough and not fair at times.  Good people get let go for no reason.  Some people don't get the breaks they should get.  Great talent gets beat out by average talent.  It's hard to explain and figure out.  There's no exact way to make it big in sportscasting.  No one has figured it out and no one ever will.  I see something amazing every week.  One of my mentors and good friends, Joe Pott, has MLB talent.  Joe Buck has said it, I say it and so do many others.  I've heard him call A LOT of baseball games..he should be at the major league level, but he isn't.....yet.  I hope he will get his shot one day.  Those jobs just don't come open often..pxp guys get in those positions and latch on to them, never letting go.  Joe wants to be an MLB Voice..I want to call high-level Division I College bball as the Voice of a team...that's my goal.

Enjoy the ride.  To me, it's one of the hardest things to do.  I've heard a lot of good advice from veterans in the business recently about enjoying the ride.  I'm blessed to be where I am today in this business.  I've caught a lot of great breaks..no question.  I'm one of the people who rarely will sit back and try to take it all in and enjoy the moments as they come.  My eyes are always set on the future and what my next step will be.  While that's fine, I've started to try and enjoy the moment a little more as of late.  These are moments you will never get back.

Random thoughts from a 24-year-old sportscaster to college students who are getting into this crazy but incredible business.  One thing I can assure you..if you were meant to do this, when you are calling games it will never feel like work.  Preparation, hard work and dedication:  three words to live by.

     -Adam Young




Wednesday, November 28, 2012

John Shelby Signed By Chicago White Sox

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Hello all!  More good news coming from the Grizzlies today.  Just two days after reliever Logan Mahon signed with the Baltimore Orioles, outfielder John Shelby has signed with the Chicago White Sox.   Congrats to 'T'!

Shelby heads back to the organization that drafted him in the 5th round in 2006.  In fact, John spent 2006-2010 in the White Sox farm system, making it to Double-A Birmingham.  He put up outsanding #'s @ every stop in the White Sox system until he reached Double-A and his production dipped slightly, which prompted his move to the Rays organization and time with Double-A Montgomery and Triple-A Durham for the 2011 season.

It's great to see John get back to affiliated ball and it's real nice to see two guys from the 2012 team get picked up in the same week.  The pattern is both Logan and John were drafted rather early and both guys have previous affiliated experience, with Shelby having much more than Logan.  Shelby was on track to a big league career in his early 20's, he was a top-notch prospect and a big piece of the White Sox organization, but now he's going to have to prove to people that he can still play at a really high level at the age of 27 (turns 28 in August). 

Photo courtesy of Frank Orris
Shelby struggled early in the 2012 season for the Grizzlies, which came as a shock to everyone.  He picked it up in the second half of the season and finished strong.  He was a big reason the Grizzlies made a late season push and got into the playoffs.  I recall a two HR game for Shelby @ Florence when he started to turn the corner and looked locked in @ the plate.  It was also a game that he played in front of family and friends since it was in Florence, KY and he's from Lexington.  Below are the radio highlights from Shelby's 2 HR game @ Florence. 

John Shelby Radio Highlights @ Florence

Photo courtesy of Frank Orris
I know John will work his tail off and take advantage of this opportunity.  Personally, the thing I was most impressed about from John Shelby in 2012 was the kind of person he was on and off the field.  As the broadcaster, you meet different personalities, some good and some bad.  John was one of the great guys in the game..always said hi, always had a smile on his face..a great teammate..and of course, a heck of a talent.  He put on displays in batting practice that many around the organization had never seen before.  I recall Grizzlies pitching coach Randy Martz (former MLB player) say to me on numerous occasions around the cage during BP.."Adam, this kid has big league power."  Martz doesn't get amazed to often, but he often times was while watching John hit.

I texted back and forth with Shelby earlier today and he told me he still doesn't know where they will send him.  It most likely depends on how well he does in spring training.  It looks like at the very least he will report to Double-A and if he performs well in spring training he could get a Triple-A shot out of the gate. 

Everyone with the Grizzlies is extremely excited for John Shelby.  I'll continue to follow his career and I hope he gets a shot in the big leagues one day soon!

       -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young


Monday, November 26, 2012

Logan Mahon headed to Baltimore Orioles Organization

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Hello all!  Great news coming out of the Grizzlies office this afternoon.  Gateway reliever Logan Mahon had his contract purchased by the Baltimore Orioles and will join their organization.  Excited for Logan and happy that he will be getting another opportunity in affiliated ball after appearing only five times for Rookie Ball Casper in 2011 with the Colorado Rockies.

Logan had a solid year for the Grizzlies out of the 'pen and showed the ability to get out both RH and LH batters.  He was drafted in the 22nd round by the Rockies in 2011 out of SEMO (first OVC player drafted that year) and is as deserving as anyone to get another shot.
Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging

The loss of Mahon will leave a void in the bullpen for the Grizzlies (he was the only LH arm last season), so don't be surprised if we see manager Phil Warren sign a couple LHP's in the coming months.  By the way, I had a chat with Phil earlier today and he's excited for next year and don't be surprised if there are a lot of players back from the 57-39 playoff team from 2012.  Much more to come on player signings in the coming months (things should pick up soon). 

Since it's not even December and we are still a little ways away from baseball season, I figured I'd post radio highlights from Game 1 of the 2012 playoffs to give you fans a little taste of baseball.  What a ride it was in 2012!

  Divisional Series Game 1 Radio Highlights

Go Grizzlies!

      -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young 


Friday, October 26, 2012

College Basketball is Back

I like college football..I watch/follow it closely when I get a chance, but in my opinion, it doesn't even come close to college basketball.  I'm a basketball junkie..have been and always will be.  Nothing compares to being in a gym full of fans on a cool Thursday night in December.  I grew up loving basketball as a player and now I love calling basketball and being the guy who describes the action as a broadcaster.  One week from tonight I'll be behind the mic for the first of many games in 2012-2013.

First off, my 60-plus game schedule had a great recent addition.  I'm excited to announce that Learfield Sports has hired me to call the play-by-play of the November 14th Toledo @ Northern Iowa Men's Basketball game in Iowa.  I'll be broadcasting for the Toledo Rockets Sports Network from Learfield Sports.  Can't wait!

For the second year in a row I'll team up with Joe Pott on the SIUE Cougar Radio Network.  Same as last year, I'll work with Joe as an analyst on the Men's games and serve as the play-by-play man for the Women's games.  I can't wait to work with Joe once again and continue to learn under one of the best broadcaster's I've been around and a guy who I've always considered to be a great mentor.

I'll have 43 games this season for SIUE.  This year's travel will take me to, most notably, Bloomington, IN where I'll get the chance to call the play-by-play of SIUE and Indiana in WBB @ historic Assembly Hall on December 16th.  The Ohio Valley Conference schedules take us to Tennessee and Kentucky for a good portion of January and February with some neat stops along the way.  Can't wait to call a full season of games once again for my alma mater!

I'll continue my role in the winter as the Public Address Announcer of McKendree MBB, but unfortunately due to my rigorous schedule with SIUE, I'll only be able to do half a dozen or so 'Cats games behind the PA mic.  It's always a treat watching 47th year McKendree head coach Harry Statham coach his team to victory.  My MCK schedule will take me on the road January 31st, where I'll be filling for the great Scott Cummings, calling the play-by-play of McKendree WBB and MBB @ Kentucky Wesleyan in a Great Lakes Valley Conference matchup.

I'll continue my work on 590 AM KFNS in the winter for the High School Sports Caravan with Jim Powers and his crew.  I'll be studio hosting/play-by-play for about 8 Friday's during the winter months when my college bball schedule allows.  Looking forward to seeing some of the great HS talent in the area.

It all starts this Sunday at the Hilton in O'Fallon with the McKendree MBB Tip-Off Dinner.  Can't wait to get the college basketball action started next Thursday @ the Vadalabene Center in Edwardsville.  This winter will include a lot of travel and will be extremely busy..my planner is packed, but in a good way..ready to get started again!

                                                                                                                                    -Adam Young

Monday, October 15, 2012

Grizzlies Release 2013 Schedule

Hello all!

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com
The Grizzlies have released their 2013 schedule.  What jumps out to me at first glance is that the Grizzlies will not be opening the season at home for the first time in a while.  They begin 2013 regular season action at Lake Erie on Friday, May 17th.  The Grizzlies play their home opener on Tuesday, May 21st against Joliet.

Unlike 2012, the Grizzlies have numerous off days in the month of June.  In fact, the Grizzlies will have every Monday off that month (4 Mondays in total).  August will have the Grizzlies two hardest road trips travel wise (@ Traverse and @ Washington) which is a change from 2012 when the Grizzlies had good travel in the second half, especially in August.

It will be interesting to start off the season on the road, especially in Avon, OH, which is one of the longer trips.  Then again, it's also nice to get that long trip out of the way to start the season.

Here's the link to the full Frontier League schedule for 2013.  Game times will be released in the coming weeks and I'll check back in with more breakdown in the coming months! 

Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Grizzlies Make Roster Move

Photo courtesy of the Rockford RiverHawks
Hello all!  The Grizzlies have made their first roster move after the completion of the 2012 season, trading right-handed pitcher Jordan Cudney to the Rockford RiverHawks in exchange for infielder, Jet Butler.

I talked this morning with manager Phil Warren and hitting coach Mike Breyman and both guys are excited about the potential of this deal.  Mike compares Butler to former Frontier League star Joash Brodin and feels that Butler has the potential to be one of the best hitters in the league.  Cudney may have the chance to be a starting pitcher for the RiverHawks, which is ultimately the position he wants to be in.  Only time will tell if this deal will sway in favor of the Grizzlies, but at least on paper it looks like a great move for Gateway.  Butler is a versatile defender who can play any of the infield positions and also the corner outfield spots.
Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon

I continue to stay busy in the offseason with broadcasting assignments.  Below are highlights from the O'Fallon/East St. Louis football game I called last Friday night with Howard Balzer.  I really enjoyed working with 'H'..great football mind.

Football Play-by-Play Highlights

Talk to you soon..Go Grizzlies!

      -Adam Young

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Grizzlies 2012 Radio Highlights

Hello all!  It has been almost a week since the Grizzlies season ended in Game 5 of the Divisional Series.  While the loss still stings, as each day passes, I believe Grizzlies fans are getting more and more excited for the 2013 season.  Below are Radio Highlights from the 2012 season..this is your chance to go back and hear some of the great moments from one of the best seasons in Grizzlies history!

2012 Gateway Grizzlies Radio Highlights

Below is the link to my 2012 Gateway Grizzlies Season In Review.  Enjoy!

2012 Gateway Grizzlies Season In Review

       -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young 

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Playoff Time For The Gateway Grizzlies

Hello all!

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com
For the first time 2007, the Gateway Grizzlies are the West Division Champions!  Gateway clinched on Friday night and then took two of three from Rockford over the weekend to finish off the regular season with 57 wins, which is second most in team history.

The Grizzlies first round opponent in the Division Series will be the red-hot Florence Freedom.  They finished off the regular season as hot as anyone and they will certainly be a tough opponent for the Grizzlies.

Below is the schedule for the first round against Florence:

Wednesday, September 5th @ GCS Ballpark; 6:35 CT
Thursday, September 6th @ GCS Ballpark; 6:35 CT
Saturday, September 8th @ The Home of the Freedom; 5:05 CT
Sunday, September 9th @ The Home of the Freedom (If necessary); 5:05 CT
Monday, September 10th @ GCS Ballpark (If necessary); 6:35 CT

We hope to see you at the ballpark.  As always, all games will be broadcast on the Grizzlies Radio Network (590 AM KFNS, 1400 AM KJFF, gatewaygrizzlies.com, kfns.com and the FREE KFNS App on your cell phone).

                                                                                            *Grizzlies Note*
Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com
Manager Phil Warren announced his postseason team awards on Sunday night prior to the game with Rockford to end the regular season.  Zac Treece was named Rookie of the Year, Justin Dunning picked up the Fan Favorite award, Tim Brown was tabbed Pitcher of the Year and Jonathan Johnson earned MVP honors.  Congrats to all!  

Go Grizzlies!

       -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Friday, August 31, 2012

Grizzlies Win Thriller in Michigan; Magic Number 1

Hello all!  After a thrilling 10-6 victory last night in Traverse City, Michigan, the Gateway Grizzlies are back home and looking to clinch the Frontier League West Division this weekend when they take on the Rockford RiverHawks.  The magic number was reduced to one with the Grizzlies win and Boomers loss Thursday night. 

Grizzlies DH Rogelio Noris had a career night last night in Traverse City.  He became the third Grizzlie to hit 3 HR's in a game and the first to do so since Ryan Sullivan in 2005.  It was also the first 3 HR game in the Frontier League since Travis Garcia in 2007.  Here's the Radio Call of Rogelio's third HR..it was undoubtedly my most excited call of the season.

Rogelio Noris 3rd HR @ Traverse City

The Grizzlies will look to become West Division Champions for the the first time since '07 when they take on the RiverHawks tonight at 7:05.  It would be the Grizzlies first playoff appearance since '08.  Can't wait!

     -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Monday, August 27, 2012

Grizzlies Win 6th In A Row; Magic Number Is 4

Photo Courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Hello all!  The Grizzlies picked up another series sweep this weekend to push their win streak to six.  Gateway is now 54-36 and their magic number to clinch the West Division is four heading into a series starting Tuesday @ Traverse City.  Below are Radio Highlights from Sunday's 11-7 win @ GCS Ballpark that gave the Grizzlies their second straight series sweep! 

Grizzlies Radio Highlights Sunday vs. Normal

We'll be on the bus traveling all day Monday to Michigan.  Due to rain Sunday, the Schaumburg Boomers series finale with Rockford was pushed back to Monday.  If the Boomers fall in that game, the Grizzlies magic number will be reduced to three games heading into Tuesday.  The earliest the Grizzlies could clinch would be on Wednesday.

Photo Courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Jon Myers had six hits in the Normal series while Landon Hernandez had a huge game Sunday (2-for-3 with a double, a home run and 3 RBI).  Gateway's rotation sets up well in Michigan.  Paul Tremlin starts Tuesday, Alex Kaminsky throws Wednesday and the ace right-hander Tim Brown will get the nod on Thursday.  Will the Grizzlies clinch in Traverse City?? We'll see.  This is going to be an exciting final week of the regular season!

You can catch all the action in the Grizzlies upcoming series by tuning into the Grizzlies Radio Network (590 AM KFNS, 1400 AM KJFF, gatewaygrizzlies.com, kfns.com and the FREE KFNS App on your phone).  Talk to you Tuesday night!

-Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Friday, August 24, 2012

First Place Grizzlies Return Home

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Hello all!  The Grizzlies are back home this weekend after a three-game series sweep of the ThunderBolts at Windy City.  Gateway moved two games ahead of Windy City and Schaumburg in the West Division after the sweep.  With only nine games remaining in the regular season, the Grizzlies are in a great position as we approach the final week.  Below are Radio Highlights from the recent series with the ThunderBolts.

Grizzlies Radio Highlights @ Windy City

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Right-hander Tim Brown (10-2, 2.19) makes the start tonight for the Grizzlies.  Brown has gone nine innings in each of his last two starts.  The St. Louis native always gives the Grizzlies a chance to win and tonight should be no different.

After tonight, Gateway plays three road games @ Traverse City before returning home next weekend for the final three regular season games.  We hope to see you @ GCS Ballpark!

Grizzlies manager Phil Warren currently has 299 career managerial wins and will look to get #300 this evening.  I'll talk to you tonight on the Grizzlies Radio Network!

      -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Monday, August 20, 2012

Grizzlies-ThunderBolts..Playoff Preview??

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Hello all!  After a rough series @ Evansville, the Gateway Grizzlies  get set for the biggest series of the season.  With only 12 games left in the regular season, the Grizzlies are in the final stretch and in the thick of a tight playoff race.  They begin a three-game series with the Frontier League leading Windy
City ThunderBolts Tuesday.

Currently, the Grizzlies and Schaumburg Boomers trail Windy City by one game in the West Division.  The Boomers take on Evansville Tues-Thurs while the Grizzlies and T-Bolts battle in the biggest series of the season for both teams.  With a series win OR a sweep, the Grizzlies would put themselves in a GREAT position heading into the weekend @ home against the struggling Normal CornBelters.

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Here's the rotation for this huge series @ Standard Bank Stadium in the suburbs of Chicago:

Tuesday: Chris Enourato (4-4, 4.60) vs. Mike Recchia (11-2, 2.40)
Wednesday: Paul Tremlin (5-3, 4.04) vs. Dustin Williams (10-6, 5.22)
Thursday: Alex Kaminsky 9-4, 3.66) vs. Blayne Weller (5-2, 4.12)

This is what's all about..playing important games in late August that have playoff implications.  This series will be a tough one for the Grizzlies.  Windy City has great starting pitching and Gateway will face three good ones in Recchia, Williams and Weller.  I'm interested to see how the Grizzlies respond after getting swept on three walk-offs @ Evansville over the weekend.  That was the second time it had happened this season (June 20th-22nd @ River City).  Can't wait for the series!

Listen live all week on the Grizzlies Radio Network (590 AM KFNS, 1400 AM KJFF, gatewaygrizzlies.com, kfns.com and the FREE KFNS App on your phone).  Budweiser Pregame Show will begin at 6:50 CT all three nights.  Talk to you tomorrow..Go Grizzlies! 

    -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young


Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Grizzlies Playoff Push Continues

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging
Hello all!  Only 17 games remain in the 2012 regular season and the Grizzlies enter action tonight a half game back of Windy City for the lead in the Frontier League West Division.  The Grizzlies are currently hanging on to the fourth and final playoff spot in the league. 

Gateway is coming off their franchise-best 8th shutout win of the season in a 5-0 victory last night against Washington.  Below are highlights from last night and from the recent series with the Southern Illinois Miners! 

Grizzlies Radio Highlights (Southern Illinois & Washington Series)

Tonight, the Grizzlies look to improve to 47-33 and win the series with the Wild Things.  Right-hander Chris Enourato (3-4) makes the start for the Grizzlies.  He looks for his first win since July 1st.  Chris will be opposed by 2011 Frontier League East Division All-Star starter, Casey Barnes (4-6).  Go Grizzlies!

      -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young 

Monday, August 13, 2012

Grizzlies Return Home For Series vs. Washington

Photo Courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com
Hello all!  Gateway finished up their three-game series with the Southern Illinois Miners on Sunday night in Marion, IL.  Southern Illinois took down Gateway 4-2 to win the series and pull a game ahead of the Grizzlies in the Frontier League wild card standings.  If the playoffs started today; Traverse City, Windy City, Southern Illinois and Gateway would be in the playoffs..in that order.  Gateway is now 1 1/2 games back of Windy City in the Frontier League West Division. 

After winning 9 straight series the Grizzlies have now lost two straight series for the first time in nearly two months.  Gateway has two series coming up with team's that have losing records (home vs. Washington and away @ Evansville).  The Grizzlies would love to get back to winning series.  After an off day Monday, ace right-hander Tim Brown will try to get the Grizzlies back on track Tuesday night.

Photo Courtesy of Paul Baillargeon
Landon Hernandez caught fire with a 5-hit series @ Southern Illinois.  Watch out for 'Lando' down the stretch, he has really looked good in August (hitting over .400 for the month).  Also, keep an eye on Jon Myers who has been hitting for power AND average as of late.

Only 18 games remain in the 2012 regular season.  This is going to be a fun of couple of weeks with the Grizzlies chasing down a playoff spot.  I can't wait to see how this unfolds in the next three weeks.  HERE WE GO!  Go Grizzlies!

         -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Saturday, August 4, 2012

Grizzlies Move Into First Place; Look For 9th Straight Series Win

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon

For the first time this season, we can say the 'first-place Grizzlies' return to action night!  How about that??  Gateway picked up another convincing win, taking down River City by the score of 9-0 last night @ GCS Ballpark.  Gateway hit 4 HR's (Hernandez 2, Shelby and Noris) and cruised to the easy victory.  Paul Tremlin fired seven scoreless innings to pick up his 5th win this season.  Below are Radio Highlights from the win last night, as heard on the Gateway Grizzlies Radio Network.

Grizzlies Radio Highlights August 3rd vs. Rascals

The Grizzlies are currently tied with the Schaumburg Boomers for the first place spot in the West Division.  Gateway has won 14 of 18..they are 16-6 in the 2nd half and are looking for their 9th straight series win tonight.

Paul Baillargeon Photo
The pitching matchup certainly favors Gateway in tonight's game, which is game 5 of a 9-game homestand.  RHP Tim Brown (7-2, 2.24) hurls for GWY while RCY goes with rookie LHP Cory Caruso (0-0, 5.28) who makes his first professional start tonight.  Below are some tidbits on the St. Louis, MO native, Tim Brown.
  • Has gone into the 7th inning in all 14 starts this season
  • 2-0 in his last 3 starts
  • His last loss was all the way back on June 6th @ Schaumburg
  • Has gone at least 7 innings in his last 6 starts
  • Brown is 2nd in the Frontier League in ERA and Innings
  • In his 4 starts in the 2nd half, he has only walked 5 batters
First pitch is at 7:05 CT tonight.  I'll talk to you on the Grizzlies Radio Network (590 AM KFNS, 1400 AM KJFF, www.gatewaygrizzlies.com, www.kfns.com and the FREE KFNS App) at 6:50 with the Budweiser Pregame Show!  Go Grizzlies!

      -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Grizzlies Return Home; Frias Heading to Chicago Cubs

Photo Courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com
After a 4-2 Road Trip, the Grizzlies are back at home tonight and they begin their longest homestand of the season...9 games in 10 days @ GCS Ballpark.  After an impressive and thrilling 3-2 12-inning win last night, the Grizzlies are riding high.

We learned today that Grizzlies SS Vladimir Frias has had his contract purchased by the Chicago Cubs.  He will report to High-A Daytona and has already left the team to head there.  This is a tough loss for Gateway, but a great chance for Frias, who was one of the best shortstops in the league.  He will be missed.  Below are Radio Highlights from Vlad's time with the Grizzlies.

Vladimir Frias Radio Highlights
Photo Courtesy of Paul Baillargeon

The Grizzlies are now 38-28 and fourth overall in the Frontier League.  They have won 11 of 14 and 15 of 19.  They look to tie a franchise-record for most wins in one month with a win here tonight.  Budweiser Pregame Show begins at 6:50 on the Grizzlies Radio Network.  Go Grizzlies!

    -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Grizzlies Continue Winning; Look For 7th Straight Series Win

Photo Courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com
Gateway continued their winning ways with an 11-5 win last night in game one of the series here in Marion, IL.  The Grizzlies and Miners were tied 3-3 in the 7th inning before the Grizzlies exploded for five runs on five hits to break the game open.  Power-hitting outfielder Rogelio Noris did it again, blasting a two-run home run to left field to break the 3-3 tie.  Below is the radio call of the Noris HR, as heard on the Gateway Grizzlies Radio Network.

Rogelio Noris 2-Run HR @ Southern Illinois

Gateway is now in third place in the Frontier League.  If the playoffs started today, the Grizzlies would be in.  Schaumburg leads Gateway by two games in the West Division and the Grizzlies sit in second place and a half game ahead of Windy City.  The Grizzlies have won 10 of 12 and are a league-best 17-7 in July.

Photo Courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/Action Imaging.com
This is a HUGE series..both Gateway and Southern Illinois are 37-27 and competing for a playoff spot.  The Grizzlies will look for their seventh straight series win tonight.  Right-hander Paul Tremlin goes for the Grizzlies.  First pitch is set for 5:05 and I'll have the call with the Budweiser Pregame Show at 4:50 on the Grizzlies Radio Network.  Talk to you then. Go Grizzlies!

    -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young 

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Grizzlies With 7 Straight Wins; Noris Continues To Hit

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com
Rogelio Noris has been everything the Gateway Grizzlies wanted AND more.  24 games into his tenure with the Grizzlies, after being acquired in a late June trade, Noris has been the best hitter in the Grizzlies order.  In 24 games with Gateway, Noris is hitting .379 with four homers and 25 RBI.  After an 11-run 7th inning that helped them come back to win 12-6 last night, the Grizzlies have won seven games in a row and are the hottest team in the Frontier League.  If the playoffs started today, Gateway would be in..and Rogelio Noris, a native of Mexico, is a big reason why.  Below are Radio Highlight from his time with Gateway.

Rogelio Noris Radio Highlights

Photo courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com
Noris hit a big two-run double in the Grizzlies explosive 7th inning last night.  Gateway was looking for a right-handed power bat prior to the all-star break and Noris has been that guy.  This trade will go down as one of the best in-season trades in Grizzlies history.  Many will compare it to the Gordie Gronkowski trade of 2010, but if this team makes the playoffs and Rogelio maintains his pace, this trade will be even better.

Noris and the Grizzlies will try to win their eighth win in a row tonight @ GCS Ballpark.  Tune in on the Gateway Grizzlies Radio Network (590 AM KFNS, 1400 AM KJFF, gatewaygrizzlies.com, kfns.com and the FREE KFNS App on your cell phone).  Go Grizzlies!

        -Voice of the Gateway Grizzlies, Adam Young

Saturday, July 21, 2012

Grizzlies Continue Hot Streak

Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com Photo
Hello all!  Tonight, the Grizzlies will try to win five games in a row for just the second time this season.  The Grizzlies are off to a stellar start to the second half of the season.  They are 6-2 in the second half and have won eight of their last ten.  Gateway has three series sweeps and will look for their fourth tonight.

Last night, Gateway defeated Schaumburg 8-6 @ GCS Ballpark.  Below are Radio Highlights from the win, as heard on the Gateway Grizzlies Radio Network.

Grizzlies Radio Highlights vs. Schaumburg (Game 2)

Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com Photo
Right-hander Alex Kaminsky gets the start for the Grizzlies.  He's 5-4 with a 5.43 ERA.  He started the season 5-0 and hasn't won a game since June 13th.  Kaminsky looked good on Monday @ Joliet, giving up only three runs in six and a third.  He has only given up four earned runs in his last 11 and a third.

The Grizzlies enter action tonight with a 31-25 record and 2 1/2 games back of Windy City for first place in the West.  The Grizzlies are two back of Schaumburg and Southern Illinois for fourth and final playoff spot.

First pitch is at 7:05 CT.  I hope to see you at the ballpark.  If not, I'll talk to you on the Grizzlies Radio Network with the Budweiser Pregame Show @ 6:50!  Go Grizzlies!

     -Voice of the Gateway Grizzlies, Adam Young

Monday, July 16, 2012

Grizzlies Start Series In Joliet

Hello all!  The Grizzlies hit the road for the first time in the second half as they take on the Slammers in Joliet starting today (Monday).  Gateway enters action in fourth place in the West Division while the Slammers are in fifth.  The Grizzlies are involved in a big log jam in the West Division.  Schaumburg, Windy City, River City and Gateway are all within five games of each other.

Gateway picked up their third walk-off win of the season on Saturday night.  It was a thriller at GCS Ballpark which resulted in a Justin Dunning (all photos courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/Action Imaging.com) walk-off RBI single.  It was great to see the local product (Trenton, IL) provide the heroics and help out his team in a big way.  He wasn't the only one who contributed..it was a team effort..Jon Myers went 4-for-4 with three doubles while having a career night and the pitching was outstanding.  Tim Brown went 8-plus and Richard Barrett pitched two hitless innings to get his first win of the summer.

Right-hander Alex Kaminsky gets the start tonight for Gateway.  It will be his first start since July 4th.  After the three games with the Slammers, the Grizzlies return home for six on Thursday with Schaumburg and Rockford.  The playoff race is heating up..it's going to be a fun second half.  Go Grizzlies!

     -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young 

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Grizzlies Begin Second Half

Time for the second half of the season to begin!  Gateway returns to action Thursday night @ GCS Ballpark when they take on the Florence Freedom.  The Grizzlies are 25-23 heading into the final 48 games of the season.  The West Division race is tight at the midway point, with the Grizzlies only four games back of first place Schaumburg.

We get our first look at 6-10 right-hander Max Whieldon in a starting role Thursday night.  Max tossed five solid relief innings on Friday @ Rockford.

Gateway made a big splash with the signing of former St. Louis Cardinals prospect Brett Zawacki Wednesday morning.  He was drafted 12th round in '07 out of HS and has outstanding stuff.  He had a good season in '10 at High-A Palm Beach and appeared in 20 games at Double-A Springfield in '11.  No word yet on whether Zawacki will start or relieve for Gateway.

The Frontier League All-Star game was Wednesday night in Normal.  Gateway ace Tim Brown got the start on the mound for the West Division and surrendered a home run to Traverse City infielder Jose Vargas.  Jonathan Johnson went 0-1, Jerod Yakubik 1-2 and Landon Hernandez finished 1-1, all in a reserve role.

Gateway will enjoy a favorable second half schedule, full of home games.  The Grizzlies will play 9 of their first 12 games in the second half @ home.

Talk to you on the Grizzlies Radio Network Thursday night @ 6:50 with the Budweiser Pregame Show.  Go Grizzlies!

          -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young