Nov. 11, 2006

SAUGET, Ill. - (Thursday, November 9, 2006) The Gateway Grizzlies and new field manager Phil Warren have announced that former Southeast Missouri State baseball player, Chris Gibson, has signed a professional contract with the team. Gibson is the son of Cardinals' Hall of Famer Bob Gibson and a former St. Louis Cardinals draft pick.

 Gibson is a 6-2, 210 pound left-handed hitting outfielder who recently completed his NCAA eligibility this past Spring with the Redhawks. In his senior campaign, Gibson hit .220 in 35 games with 12 doubles and 10 runs scored. He also tied the team lead with nine stolen bases in 10 attempts. In his two-year career as a Redhawk, he hit .223 and added 32 RBI. He stole 15 bases in 19 attempts and posted a .975 fielding percentage in the outfield.

"He is an exceptional athlete," Warren said. "He carried himself well. He has a good demeanor. I am looking forward to getting something out of him that maybe people haven't seen yet."

Originally from Bellevue, Neb., Gibson worked out in front of the Grizzlies last season at GCS Ballpark. Gibson began his college career at Pratt Community College in Pratt, KS before spending the last two seasons at Southeast. He was originally drafted out of high school by the St. Louis Cardinals, but opted to attend college instead.

"This is a very exciting time for me," Gibson said. "I had the opportunity to play pro ball for the Cardinals when I was drafted but I wasn't sure I was ready. I think that I am now."

Gibson will join returning Grizzlies as well as other invitees in Spring Training, which will take place in May.