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FCBL North Shore Navigators

Grant Continues Making Saves

April 28, 2014 - Futures Collegiate Baseball League (FCBL)
North Shore Navigators News Release


Over the past three seasons a lot has changed at Fraser Field. There has been a change in ownership, a change in managers, a change from the NECBL to the FCBL, a change in field turf, and even a change in uniforms. Amongst this change has remained one constant, players' success.

When the Navigators were leading late in the game and needed to shut the door on the opponent, they turned to their closer, Ryan Grant. Grant, who won the FCBL All-Star Fan Vote in 2013, added another accomplishment to his resume on Sunday as he picked up his 45th career save which is the new all-time NCAA Division III record.

"I think it is impressive that our program has found a way to win so many close games," said Grant. "Winning games by three runs or less takes a team effort to do the little things right. Our guys will do anything to win and I am proud to be a part of that type of program"

Grant returned to Fraser Field in 2013 after an extremely strong junior year at Wheaton. He appeared in 26 games his junior year keeping opponents to a .189 batting average while posting a 2.04 ERA. During the summer for the Navigators, Grant was a staple in the bullpen, making 16 appearances which was tied for 2nd most on the team. He posted a 4.50 ERA while only allowing 18 hits in 20 innings pitched.

However, Grant isn't the only former Navigator having success this season. Alex Markakis and Joe Gruntkosky helped St. Joesph's College of Maine win their 5th straight GNAC Championship. On Saturday night against Suffolk University, Markakis went 3-5 with 3 runs scored and 3 RBI in addition to hitting a triple and a homerun. In the GNAC Championship game on Sunday, Gruntkosky got the start and threw 6 innings of shut-out ball, allowing only 4 hits and striking out 7. Gruntkosky hasn't surrendered a run since March 11th. He is 4-0 this year with a 1.69 ERA. Markakis is batting .316 with 17 RBI and 16 runs scored in 32 games.

Navigator's GM Bill Terlecky added "It's great to see our former players succeed and help their teams' win. Ryan, Alex, and Joe were tremendous for us so their success now is no surprise."

While former Navigators are having success, the current group of Navs players are looking forward to opening up the 2014 season at home against the Wachusett Dirt Dawgs on Saturday, June 7th at 7 PM on the brand new Fraser Field. Tickets are available by calling 781-595-9400.

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