SAUGET — The Gateway Grizzlies and Manager Phil Warren have made two more moves leading up to the 2013 season, which begins on May 17 when the Grizzlies take on the Lake Erie Crushers in Avon, Ohio.

Ja'Vaun West, a right-handed pitcher for the Grizzlies in 2012, has been re-signed. The 25-year-old from Atlanta, Mo., went 5-2 with a 3.77 ERA in 20 appearances (3 starts). The 6-2 212-pound hurler struggled in a starting role to begin his professional career, but excelled in the bullpen and was a key part of the Gateway relief core down the stretch.

"West really got comfortable in his role in our bullpen last season," Warren commented. "We knew he had great talent and we were able to see that when he was flourishing in the bullpen."

Gateway has also signed another pitcher for 2013. Wes Edwards, a 6-4 205-pound right-hander from Rochester, NY will join the Grizzlies in spring training. Edwards begins his professional career after playing collegiately at Division II Winston-Salem State University.

Edwards, 23, went 3-3 with a 4.40 ERA during his senior season, helping the Rams collect 35 wins. He appeared in 20 games (6 starts) and tied for the team lead in saves with three. Edwards struck out 66 batters in 57 and one third innings, while holding opponents to a .189 batting average.

"Wes is an outstanding talent and we feel he hasn't even touched his potential yet," Warren remarked. "He's a big pitcher who throws hard and has good movement on his pitches. We are excited to see how he performs at this level."

The Grizzlies 2013 home opener is May 21 when the Grizzlies take on the Joliet Slammers in the friendly confines of GCS Ballpark. Season and group tickets are on sale now. For more information call 618-337-3000.