By Ember McElrath 

Coach Ludy Griggs is gearing up his baseball team for yet another season of fall ball. 

“I take the fall season as our learning trial period,” said coach Griggs. “Fall is way more difficult in class A with so many bigger schools playing; I want to acclimate the freshmen and sophomore players at the varsity level. Get them some game time at bat. This really helps prepare for the spring season.” 

This year coach Griggs has a young team, so depth will not be their strong suit; but these young, eager players will be a challenge for any team they come across. 

“I really do not have that true number one pitcher this year, but I have a few number two and three’s that just throw strikes,” said coach Griggs. “So, anyone who is toeing the rubber is my number one that day.” 

This team’s first challenge will also be their very first game. It will give the team the chance to really get into the game mindset and get a good feel for playing together. With this year’s team being young and this being Grigg’s twentieth year with Union City, he knows what he wants from his team and their fans.

“I think our fans need to understand the fall season is tough. Do not expect championships just yet. I want them to be patient,” coach Griggs said. “Players play, coaches coach, and fans cheer. Enjoy the kids.” 

Braydon Armstrong will be a player that coach Griggs expects to help set the tone for the team. 

“He has great leadership qualities about himself.” 

Not only will this be an exciting year for the team, but coach Griggs is just six wins away from 600 career wins and every one of those wins has been with his very own Union City Tigers.