HAPPY FATHERS DAY: BAYCATS TALK ABOUT WHAT THEIR DAD'S HAVE MEANT TO THEM IN THEIR BASEBALL CAREERS

Happy Fathers Day! The Baycats are on a four game winning streak after an exciting come from behind walk off win over the Welland Jackfish. No game today means a full day spent with Dad. We asked some of the players what their dad has meant to them in their baseball careers.

Brad Grieveson

“My dad was instrumental in my career. He sent me to the week-long Blue Jay Development camp where I was discovered by the Legendary Mike Steed. After a summer of playing him, that fall I found myself on a plane headed for Texas. My dad allowed me to be in the right place to be discovered. Sadly, the year that we won the JUCO WS, my father passed. To this day I have his last words and a constant reminder written under the bill of my cap. His last words and one other phrase from him. "I'm proud of you." The other, "Don't throw, pitch." 

My step-father was also instrumental in my journey. Everything from support, travel, financial, etc, he was there as well. 

I am forever grateful to the love and support I received in allowing me to make a dream a reality.”

Andrew Johnston

“He has meant a ton, support through everything. [He] has helped me get to where I am today as a player and a person.”

Tyler Plumpton

“There is no way to thank my dad enough for everything he has done for me during my baseball career. My dad would work a full day at a factory, and then come home to me and my brother wanting to play ball with him. He never once said no, or I'm too tired. He has been my batting practice pitcher, my long toss partner, my coach, and my taxi driver over the years.”

Now I am lucky enough to see him play baseball with my 3 and 6 year old, and I get to see the true happiness that it brings him, and my kids. It's a very special bond I get to share with my dad, and we have both been lucky to have that for a long time.”

Nolan Machibroda

“He’s meant everything, wouldn’t be able to play the game without him.”