ABOUT MIKE GRINDSTAFF: 

Joliet, Ill., native and Northern Illinois University product Mike Grindstaff will continue playing baseball in Illinois as he joins the CrackerJacks for the summer. The 19-year old right-handed pitcher played at Lockport High School until he was a senior when he transferred to Joliet West High School.

As a member of the Huskies, Grindstaff finished his freshman season with a 13.50 ERA in eight appearances. He made his collegiate debut in NIU’s opening game against the Tennesee Volunteers, completing one inning of work and allowing only one hit, one walk and no runs.

Grindstaff left Joliet West with the school record for most wins in a season after posting a 9-1 record with two saves in 12 appearances as a senior in 2011. He also totaled 86 strikeouts and a 1.31 ERA. As a senior, Grindstaff was honored as Team MVP, All-Conference, IHSA All-Area, and the Pitcher of the Year by the Old Timers Baseball Association of Will County. He was also a great hitter in high school and played second base, once missing the cycle by a double while pitching a complete game in a 5-1 victory.

The Joliet West 2011 graduating class included another Division I athlete. Grindstaff was in the same graduating class as Western Illinois Leathernecks basketball player Remy Roberts-Burnett. Grindstaff has also picked up the nickname “Grinder.”

Grindstaff is the son of Toni Grindstaff and the late Kenneth Grindstaff.