Attachment: Erik Dessau/Manny Paula pictures, courtesy: Action Imaging
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 12, 2008
THREE MORE RETURN FOR GRIZZLIES
The Grizzlies announced today that three more players have been re-signed from last season's team that won a franchise-record 64 games and the Frontier League West Division title.
Right-handed pitcher Erik Dessau and infielders Manny Paula and Ryan Saltzgaber have all had their options renewed for the 2008 season.
Dessau enjoyed a record-setting season in 2007. The St. Louis native (Mehlville High School/University of Missouri) finished with a 14-2 record and a 3.08 earned run average. He struck out 91 while walking just 31 in 138 innings pitched. His 14 wins were tied for the league lead in 2007, and set a franchise record. His 138 innings pitched also set a franchise record. His 20 starts tied him for the most in a season. He has now won 26 games in a Grizzlies uniform, tying him for the franchise record for career wins. Dessau was an All-Star selection in 2006 and 2007.
"He's our horse," Grizzlies manager Phil Warren said of Dessau. "He had a break-out season in 2007 and we expect more of the same. I expect him to head our staff and set the tone for the rest of the rotation."
Paula turned in a great rookie season in 2007, hitting .299 with 15 home runs and 47 RBIs. He appeared at five different positions last season-two on the infield and all three outfield positions. He spent the second half of the season as the team's everyday third baseman. He was named as the team's rookie of the year in fan voting.
Saltzgaber also enjoyed an impressive rookie season in 2007. Saltzgaber joined the team in July after playing college baseball at the University of Texas-San Antonio. Saltzgaber hit .320 with seven home runs and 28 RBIs in 51 games with the Grizzlies. He was used primarily as the Grizzlies shortstop. Saltzgaber suffered a separated shoulder during the first game of last year's playoffs, but is fully recovered.
"Those are two guys that had outstanding rookie campaigns," Warren said. "They have a season behind them. I look for them to be more matured and have increased production."
None of the players are guaranteed a spot with the club for the season. All three players will participate in spring training, which begins Wednesday May 7.
The Grizzlies being their eighth Frontier League season May 21 when they host the Southern Illinois Miners.
Season tickets, mini-plans and group outings are currently on sale and available by calling the Grizzlies at 618-337-3000 or visiting the GCS Ballpark ticket office in person.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Joe Pott or Jeff O'Neill in the Grizzlies office by calling 618-337-3000.
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