Grizzlies Home Opener Brings Glitz, Good Vibes and a Loss

By David Taub, Senior Reporter

Published 7 years ago on

April 11, 2018

When can a 13-0 loss be classified as a pitcher’s duel?

When the Fresno Grizzlies give up 11 runs in the ninth inning to the Tacoma Rainiers.

Regardless of the final score, an announced crowd of 10,198 fans enjoyed the glitz and glamour of the home opener Tuesday night.

Parker T. Bear did not ride onto the field in his customary scooter. The Grizzlies mascot dove out of the sky (didn’t stick the landing though). Boxing champ Jose Ramirez showed his versatility, with the ability to throw a punch and a first pitch. And Fresno Mayor Lee Brand brought in a young relief pitcher to toss out his ceremonial opening pitch.

Here is a look at the pre-game ceremonies.

Parker makes an aerial entrance.

New Grizzlies owner Jim Coufos on the excitement of the home opener.

Mayor Lee Brand was scheduled to deliver the first pitch, but called in some help.

Boxing champ Jose Ramirez throws one of the ceremonial pitches.

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David Taub,

Senior Reporter

Curiosity drives David Taub. The award-winning journalist might be shy, but feels mighty with a recorder in his hand. He doesn't see it his job to "hold public officials accountable," but does see it to provide readers (and voters) the information needed to make intelligent choices. Taub has been honored with several writing awards from the California News Publishers Association. He's just happy to have his stories read. Joining GV Wire in 2016, Taub covers politics, government and elections, mainly in the Fresno/Clovis area. He also writes columns about local eateries (Appetite for Fresno), pro wrestling (Off the Bottom Rope), and media (Media Man). Prior to joining the online news source, Taub worked as a radio producer for KMJ and PowerTalk 96.7 in Fresno. He also worked as an assignment editor for KCOY-TV in Santa Maria, California, and KSEE-TV in Fresno. He has also worked behind the scenes for several sports broadcasts, including the NCAA basketball tournament, and the Super Bowl. When not spending time with his family, Taub loves to officially score Fresno Grizzlies games. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, Taub is a die-hard Giants and 49ers fan. He graduated from the University of Michigan with dual degrees in communications and political science. Go Blue! You can contact David at 559-492-4037 or at Send an Email