SAUGET — Gateway Grizzlies All-Star catcher Landon Hernandez is returning for another season. 2013 will mark the fourth season for Hernandez in a Grizzlies uniform.
"Signing Landon was a main focus of ours this offseason," Grizzlies manager Phil Warren said. "We would like to see him consistent at the plate all season. We haven't seen him put his offense and defense together for a full season yet."
Hernandez has hit 36 home runs and driven in 107 runs in his three-year career with the Grizzlies, covering 206 games. Last season, the 25-year-old from Palm Desert, Calif., hit .247 with 16 home runs and 49 RBI in 75 games en route to earning All-Star honors.
"Offensively, Landon has improved immensely since he came here in 2010," Warren remarked. "With that said, he hasn't had a complete year yet. I believe he can be the best all-around player in our league if he can put both facets of his game together for a full season."
Hernandez has shined defensively, throwing out 36% of the attempted base stealers in his three seasons, including a league-best 43% in 2011.
"Defense is his strong suit," said Warren. "He can change a game defensively and I know the pitchers love him for that."
The Grizzlies 2013 home opener is on May 21st when they 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.
