The Gastonia Grizzlies announced today the signing of two former draft picks for the 2012 season with outfielders Brandon Alexander (pictured L-R courtesy of Louisiana Monroe SID office and Perfect Game) from University of Louisiana Monroe and Vince Howard from Western Illinois University.

Alexander, a 6-1, 193 pound Junior will begin his first season University of Louisiana at Monroe after attending John A. Logan College. He started 44 games for John A. Logan with seven doubles, two triples and three home runs. Alexander was drafted in the 29th round in 2009 by the Baltimore Orioles.

Howard, a 6-0, 190 pound Junior will begin his first season at Western Illinois after attending St. Louis C.C.- Meramec.  In 2011 Howard batted .292 with 20 RBIs, and 36 runs. He was drafted in the 30th round in 2009 by the Atlanta Braves.

“Brandon is an extremely talented player with lots of tools.  He is a guy that can really go get the ball in center field and will provide some pop and speed to our line-up,” said Grizzlies head coach Kyle Surprenant.  “We expect a great summer from Brandon and are excited to have him.”

“Vince is an exceptionally athletic player that has several tools.  He can hit for power, average and can flat out fly.  He comes very highly recommended from several coaches and professional scouts. We are excited to have Vince and feel he will be a big part of our team’s success.”

Grizzlies Opening Night is set for May 29th vs. the Columbia Blowfish.  A limited number of season tickets and “All You Can Eat Season Tickets” are available for the 2012 season.  Season Tickets begin at less than $5 a game and All You Can Eat Season Tickets start at less than $9 per game.  For more information about any of the Grizzlies ticket plans you can call the Grizzlies front office at 704-866-8622 or visit www.gastoniagrizzlies.com.

The Coastal Plain League is the nation’s hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its 16th season in 2012, the CPL features 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. The CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts. Furthermore, the CPL has had over 930 alumni drafted and 46 alums make their Major League debut thus far. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league website at http://www.coastalplain.com, and be sure to friend us on Facebook (at http://www.facebook.com/coastalplainleague) and follow us via Twitter (as cpleague).

Jesse Cole

(704) 866-8622