FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 27,2007

 

FORMER GRIZZLIES PITCHER JOINS PIRATES

 

The Gateway Grizzlies announced today that the contract of former pitcher Chrisitan Castorri has officially been purchased by the Pittsburgh Pirates organization.  Castorri has joined the Pirates' single-A affiliate, the State College Spikes, of the New York-Penn League.

 

The Thomasville, GA native pitched for the Grizzlies in 2006.  He joined the club after playing college baseball for Georgia College and State University.  Castorri originally joined the Pirates during this past off-season.  He had been in extended spring training.

 

Castorri appeared 23 times for the Grizzlies in 2006, including three starts.  He compiled a 3-4 record and a 4.89 ERA.  He tossed 53.1 innings, striking out 41 while walking 15.

 

Current Grizzlies manager Phil Warren was the player personnel director when Castorri was brought in.

 

"Christian has a great work ethic and a great attitude," Grizzlies manager Phil Warren said.  "He deserves the shot he's getting.  I'm proud that a former Grizzlie is moving up."

 

Castorri has already appeared twice for the Spikes.  He has no record and a 2.25 ERA.  In four innings he has four strikeouts and two walks.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Joe Pott or Tony Funderburg in the Grizzlies office by calling 618-337-3000.

 

 

-www.gatewaygrizzlies.com-