Grizzlies Sign Closer
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 Carnivals Fascination. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Grizzlies front office at 704-866-8622 or by visiting www.gatoniagrizzlies.com.
The Gastonia Grizzlies are a member of the Coastal Plain League, the nations hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its twelfth season, the Coastal Plain League 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. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league website at www.coastalplain.com.
Contact:Jamie Curtis
(704) 866-8622