Grizzlies 2012 Schedule Breakdown

Hello all!  158 days until opening day!  Yes, I know that is far away, but I'm still in the baseball mood and with the recent release of the schedule, I thought it would be a good time to break down the Grizzlies 2012 schedule.

While there could still be some minor changes, the schedule is pretty much set (even game times).  The Grizzlies open up the exhibition season May 9th @ home vs. the Southern Illinois Miners.  GWY will play six EXH games before opening up for good on Friday, May 18th against the reigning Frontier League Champion, Joliet Slammers. 

The first half of the season figures to be a tough one.  Gateway will spend the majority of the first half on the road, especially in June, when they play 18 of their 28 games away from GCS Ballpark.  The Grizzlies first road trip of the season is also a tough one, taking them through Washington AND London, Ontario, Canada May 22-27. 

It appears if the Grizzlies can stay in the hunt until August, the schedule is favorable down the stretch.  GWY spends 11 of their first 14 games in August @ home, with an off day mixed in.  Also, six of the final nine games of the season are @ GCS Ballpark.  One of the biggest differences IMO is the fact that the Grizzlies will only get three days off during the All-Star Break.  GWY will play on the Thursday of All-Star week vs. Florence (only game in the league that day) and get that Sunday off instead. 

We could get into it much more, but those are some of the things that jumped out at me.  Schedule is finished, roster is shaping up and the field turf is about to be installed @ GCS Ballpark..now all we need is some games.  Once again, 158 days until Opening Day on May 18th vs. the Joliet Slammers. 

I'll be checking back in this week with field turf progress..Go Grizzlies!

      -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Gateway Catcher Landon Hernandez Returns

Hello all!  As promised, I'm back with some Grizzlies news.  Grizzlies catcher Landon Hernandez is returning for a third season (All photos courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com).  Hernandez was one of the top hitters for the Grizzlies during the 2011 season.  Below is a link to one of my 18 Landon Hernandez home run calls from 2011!

HERNANDEZ HOMERS IN EVANSVILLE

Hernandez, 24, enjoyed a breakout 2011 season.  He batted .250 with 18 homers and 46 RBI, while being named the Gateway Grizzlies Fan Favorite.  In 2010, Hernandez homered just two times in limited action as the team’s backup catcher.  The 6-1 230-pound backstop took over starting duties in 2011 and played in 86 of the team’s 95 games.  Hernandez got off to a blistering start to the season, ran into a mid-season funk, but finished strong.   

“Landon had an outstanding year for us both offensively and defensively,” Grizzlies Manager Phil Warren said.  “With that said, I still think we haven’t seen the best of Landon Hernandez.  I think he has even more to offer in 2012.” 

Despite his great offensive numbers, Hernandez could be considered more of a defensive catcher.  A Palm Desert, CA native, Hernandez was the top defensive catcher in the Frontier League, throwing out over 40 percent of attempted base stealers. 

“Not only does he throw out runners at a high rate, but he also handles the pitchers very well,” Warren commented.  “Our pitchers enjoy throwing to him and he has great instincts behind the plate.”

Hernandez is currently playing winter baseball in Australia and excelling.  He was named to the South Australian All-Star team.  Hernandez returns in 2012 as one of the team’s top offensive threats.  With the trade of Charlie Lisk to River City, Hernandez has the most returning home runs.  Hernandez will also be searching for his first All-Star appearance when the 2012 Frontier League All-Star game takes place in Normal, IL in early July. 

“Landon is an All-Star caliber player,” Warren remarked.  “When healthy and performing at the top of his game, he is the best catcher in the Frontier League.  He’s still young, but is considered a veteran to us because he has so much experience.  He’s a mature player and person.  We are thrilled to be bringing him back for another season.”

Can't wait to see what Lando brings to the table in 2012.  He's a special talent.  I can't wait for the 2012 season!

   Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

Hello all!  It was a busy week for me behind the microphone with seven college basketball games during the week, including four games over a two-day span (Friday and Saturday).  Early in the week I was @ McKendree and SIUE for Men's Basketball..Friday and Saturday I had four games @ three different Universities (Washington University-St. Louis, McKendree and an SIUE road game @ SIU Carbondale).  I was also battling a horrible cold, which luckily I've been able to get rid of for the most part..I'd say I'm back to about 85 percent! 

With all of that said, Saturday was the highlight as the SIUE Women's Basketball team continued their hot start to the season w/ an overtime thriller against sister school, SIUC.  Cougars won 70-60 in OT..a BIG win for the program AND the University.  Thanks to a Raven Berry 10-footer that beat the horn in regulation, I got to call a buzzer-beater that sent us to OT.  I'm extremely excited for the week ahead..should be a great one.  Tuesday night it's SIUE Women vs. Bradley followed by SIUE Men vs. Ball State.  The weekend could be a busy one as well on the road...I will most likely be on the call of SIUE Women @ Depaul Friday and then @ IPFW on Sunday.  It's either that or alongside Joe Pott for SIUE Men @ Home on Saturday.  Either way, more and more college basketball.  I might also try to make it over to Chaifetz on Wednesday to check out the SLU Billikens in person for the first time this season..anyone who knows me is aware that I'm a HUGE SLU fan..always have been!  The Billikens have Vermont on Wednesday.

I'll be checking back in this week with some Grizzlies news most likely.  Take care!

Mark Brackman Returns For His Fourth Season

Hello All! Today is a big day for the Grizzlies with the announcement that Gateway 'Ace' Mark Brackman is coming back!  This is huge on-field news for the Grizzlies, who are searching for their first playoff berth since 2008 (All pictures are courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com). 

Brackman (pronounced Brock-man) had an injury plagued 2011 season, but still finished with seven wins and the best ERA in the Frontier League at 2.15.  He's a two-time FL All-Star and in my eyes the top pitcher in the league.  When Brackman toes the rubber, fans fully expect the Grizzlies to win..it's that simple.  You almost know exactly what you're going to get out of the tall righty from Kansas City, MO.  He works quickly, goes deep into games, is never phased by runners on base and always gives him team a chance to win. 

Brackman is the Ace of the Grizzlies...no doubt about it.  Even when the Grizzlies had Aaron Shafer (now at Double-Mississippi in the Braves Org.), Mark was still the ace.  Even when he doesn't have his 'best' stuff, he still finds a way to get the job done.  His command is impeccable and his stuff is as good as anyones in the FL. 

There are certain guys you see, whether it be pitchers or position players, that stand out...Brackman is one of those.  If he got picked up by an MLB Club next year, I wouldn't be surprised.  Mark is 26, which is the age that Scott Patterson was when he left the Grizzlies for affiliated ball.  The rest was history for Patterson, who made his Major League debut in '08 with the Yankees.  Brackman has spent some time in affiliated ball.  He was drafted in '07 by the Tigers and pitched in their system through '08.  He was a thrower then, not a pitcher.  Brackman has a big frame (6-7 230) and back then he was trying to blow fastballs by people.  He learned the hard way and found out in game situations that it wouldn't work, even against player's in the low levels of Minor League Baseball.  Mark was the same way when he pitched for GWY in '09.  He struggled, losing 10 games and barely getting his ERA below five to finish the season.  Then something clicked.  He  became a pitcher and started to locate as well as anyone in the league.  '10 was a career year for him..13-4 and the runner up for Pitcher of the Year honors in the league.  Brackman is now a veteran and he pitches like one..often times out-smarting opposing hitters. 

I know many of the fans are as excited as I am to get to see Mark Brackman throw again for the Gateway Grizzlies.  2011 figures to be a record-breaking year for him.  He is closing in on numerous different career pitching records at Gateway.  For the full release on the Brackman signing and the records he is chasing, check out the link below.  Go Grizzlies!

http://www.gatewaygrizzlies.com/pressbox/current/index.html?article_id=431

      -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young

As promised last week, here's my post on the Grizzlies most recent transactions.  Gateway has re-signed right-handed pitchers Ryan Juarez, Sean Toler and Tyler Heil.  Here's my thoughts, taking a look at each pitcher individually (All photos courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com).

Ryan Juarez:  Ryan returns to GWY after being named the team's Rookie of the Year in 2011.  He had a strong late July-early August, winning four consecutive starts during the span.  Ryan was one of the hardest workers and toughest competitors I saw last season in the Frontier League.  His finals numbers in 2011:  4-4 5.22 ERA 11 G 9 GS 50 IP 25 SO.  I still remember Ryan's pro debut at River City..he came out of the 'pen and went right after the toughest lineup in the FL.  Grizzlies Manager Phil Warren is looking for more consistency from Juarez in 2012..I think we'll see that. 

Sean Toler:  Sean pitched for GWY in 2010 before being traded traded away to Windy City.  After finishing off '10 very strong with the T-Bolts, Toler started '11 with River City before being traded back to GWY.  Toler showed glimpses on the mound, but it was clear he wasn't the same pitcher as he was in '10, and health was a big reason.  Toler is still 24 and has one of the best arms on the Grizzlies staff...the biggest key for Sean in 2012 is to stay healthy.  If healthy, we should see the '10 version of Sean Toler.  He's expected to pitch out of the bullpen for Gateway. 

Tyler Heil:  Tyler will make the full transition from position player to pitcher in 2012.  This is the first time Heil will be able to put his whole focus into his work on the mound.  He tossed eight innings and recorded a 2.25 ERA in five appearances in 2011.  Heil made a started on August 31st @ Florence, surrendering only two runs while striking out four in four innings.  It's still unknown where Heil will fit into the pitching staff...even Phil Warren doesn't know.  Tyler might start and he might relieve..he's the big question mark heading into camp.  I'm excited to see the progess Tyler Heil makes with his focus solely on pitching. 

GWY has signed some newcomers..I will introduce you to those new Grizzlies in the coming weeks.  Go Grizzlies!

            -Adam Young

College Basketball Underway

Hello All! Last Thursday marked the beginning of the College Basketball season for me with McKendree University taking on Maryville University. That was game one of six games in three days for me, which included a thrilling 67-64 OT win in the season opener on Saturday afternoon for the SIUE Women's Basketball team against Valparaiso. Below is a link to my personal website, which has highlights of the game on the home page.

SIUE-Valparaiso Highlights

It was also a busy weekend getting the basketball season kicked off at McKendree University, where I thoroughly enjoyed watching Harry Statham's team play.  It has been a joy getting to know Harry, who is one of the nicest coaches I have been around.  He is the NCAA's all-time wins leader and coaching his 46th season at McKendree, yet he always has time to talk basketball with fans.  He is a great coach and a great guy.

Monday night I got to experience something that was extremely neat for me.  SIUE took on Illinois in the Cougars' 2011-12 Season Opener.  Final score was Illinois 66 SIUE 46, but it was a single digit game late and the Cougars certainly held their own.  It was an encouraging effort, especially for a season opener.  I grew up watching Illinois on TV, but never had made a trip to The Assembly Hall.  Therefore, the experience was a thrill.  If I was there just simply as a fan, I know I wouldn't of had the same feeling.  I was there as a broadcaster, alongside Joe Pott for the call on the SIUE Cougar Radio Network.  It was a great moment in my young broadcasting career.  It's one of those moments that motivates me even more to work hard and continue to improve so that one day I'm on that type of stage on a consistent basis. 

Another busy week of College Basketball (and Professional Indoor Soccer mixed in) continues this week.  Here's my broadcast schedule the rest of the week.

      *Wed:  SIUE WBB Play-by-Play vs. Ball State w/ pregame at 6:50 on the Cougar Network.
      *Thurs:  SIUE MBB Color Analyst @ Illinois St. (Cancun Challenge) w/ pregame at 6:50.
      *Sat:  Illinois Piasa Professional Indoor Soccer Play-by-Play vs. Detroit Waza @ 7:30.
      *Sun:  SIUE WBB Play-by-Play vs. UIC w/pregame at 12:50 on the Cougar Network.

      -Adam Young

Grizzlies Re-Sign Six Players

Hello all!  If you keep close tabs on the Grizzlies official website (www.gatewaygrizzlies.com), then you are aware that the Grizzlies have signed six players recently.  I'm extremely excited about each of the players re-signed..all six guys are quality players.  I'm here to breakdown each player and give you an idea of what I expect from each player in 2012 and also a little bit of  what Grizzlies Manager Phil Warren is looking for.  Also, below is a clip from a late-season game in Marion when the Miners clinched a playoff berth.  I'm confident next year I'll be making that call and say the Grizzlies are heading back to the playoffs! 

MINERS WALK OFF AGAINST GRIZZLIES AT RENT ONE PARK


First off I'll start with the four pitchers signed.

Chris Enourato: Enourato (pictured right:  all photos courtesy of Paul Baillargeon/ActionImaging.com) was the team's 2011 Pitcher of the Year.  He led the team with 11 saves, tied for the team lead in appearances with 39 and was named to the Frontier League All-Star team.  I'm a big fan of Chris and his ability on the mound.  He won't overpower you, but he has impeccable command and great composure.  He was a closer in college at West Virginia (and a very good one at that), but Phil has decided to put him in the rotation for next year.  If the transition doesn't go well, Phil will move him back to the 'pen, but at least for now Chris Enourato is a starter.  I'm intrigued by this move.  Phil's reasoning is Chris has enough pitches to be a starter and he feels Chris going 6 or 7 gives this team a better chance to win and Chris a better chance to get noticed.  We'll see how it pans out come May. 

Richard Barrett:  Richard was a bright spot out of the bullpen during the tough 2011 season.  At times, he and Enourato were an outstanding 1-2 punch at the back end of the 'pen.  Now, the skipper expects Richard to be a closer and dominate the end of games.  He certainly has the talent to do so.  Richard has some of the best stuff in the league.  He is still young at 23 and his best years could very well still be ahead of him.  Having Barrett and Derrick Miramontes at the end of games should be tough on opponents.

Paul Tremlin:  Paul was a quality reliever in 2011 before being sidelined at the end of the season because of irritation in his elbow.  Paul is only 22 and is another guy Phil Warren has decided to put in the rotation during camp.  Paul is long and lanky, throws hard and showed good command as a true rookie.  Paul Tremlin could very well have a breakout year in 2012.  The ceiling is very high for him.

Jordan Cudney:  Jordan had arguably the best finish to the season of any Grizzlies pitcher.  He tossed an absolute gem in a spot start during the final weekend of the season (6ip 1h 0r 8so).  Jordan was also throwing against the league's best offense, River City.  He's another guy who will most likely be looked at as a starter.  At least heading into camp, it appears the Grizzlies will have a ton of starters to look at, which is a good thing.  Cudney is another young, powerful arm with a number of quality pitches. 

Here's a look at the two position players signed by GWY.

Kent Gerst:  Kent is a guy with Triple-A experience and has been in pro baseball for a number of years..but he is only 23.  The upside is high for Kent Gerst.  Phil Warren said he is hoping for a career year from Kent Gerst...I am as well.  He is certainly capable of that, if healthy.  He works hard and is a great guy off the field.  Kent is a rare commodity in this league..he has hit for average, power and has displayed top of the league speed as well.  If Kent gets off to a hot start next year and is signed by an MLB club early on, it wouldn't suprise me.  If Kent comes to camp healthy, watch out. 

Case Rigby:  At 5-11 225 and seemingly no true position on the field, Case isn't your prototypical baseball player, but man did he have some kind of a season with GWY in 2011.  .354 average in 24 games, which included 12 multi-hit games and nine RBI.  He was fun to watch.  Reminded me a little bit of Kevin Youkilis to tell you the truth.  He wasn't flashy at 1B, but got the job done.  Phil says he's interested to see what Case looks like in May when camp begins.  He has some things to work on in the offseason fielding wise, but no one can deny how well he can hit.  I think Case will be a big part of the 2012 club.

That's the outlook for the recent re-signings.  It the next week, expect a release on the team website about the Grizzlies re-signing of Tyler Heil and Ryan Juarez.  I'll also post my thoughts about those two guys coming back right here on my blog!!

192 days until Opening Day.  In the meantime, contact me to get your season tickets ordered!  Go Grizzlies!!

        -Voice of the Grizzlies, Adam Young