The UT Martin Skyhawks baseball team have gone 10-1 in their last 11 games at home following a series win over the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles at Skyhawk Field and improved their season record to 18-17.

UT Martin took games one and two by a combined score of 19-10. In the final game of the series, Tennessee Tech came back and defeated UT Martin in a high scoring affair, 18-16.

This series saw not only high scoring offense and shaky pitching performances, but also a record-breaking performance from one of UT Martin’s own.

In game three of the series, UT Martin senior UTL TJ Grines added two more steals to his season totals, surpassing his former teammate Jalen Fithian and claiming the number one spot on the all-time UT Martin Division I single-season steals record with 38 total steals and counting.

In addition, Grines became UT Martin’s all-time leader in career stolen bases during the Division I era with 53 total, passing Trey Karlen (51), in steals and with plenty of games left to play in the regular season.

UT Martin’s head coach Ryan Jenkins had nothing but praise for the teams lead-off hitter.

“He is outstanding. He’s a great player and I am very happy to have him,” said Jenkins. “He has great tools. He has the ability to run and hit and do everything. TJ is just a great baseball player.”

Taking big lead-offs and stealing bases can be quite thrilling. Grines said the thrill of being active on the bases brings him tons of enjoyment.

“When I get on the bases I just feel free,” said Grines. “I really like running and just showing off my speed.”

Grines was well aware of the steals record. Grines views the achievement as a consequence of his own hard work and dedication that he has put in his entire life.

“It means the world to me,” said Grines. “I have put in a lot of hard work and it is finally paying off. I am just happy I get to show people what I can do.”

Jenkins made sure to not only credit Grines the player, but also Grines the person.

“All that said he’s an even better person. He’s a leader in the clubhouse, he does everything the right way and he’s mature,” said Jenkins. “You couldn’t ask for a better guy to be on the team.”

Grines has his leadership philosophy down to a simple motto; lead by example.

“My goal is to lead by example. I don’t really say too much, because I am a real reserved guy,” said Grines. ” If I see my teammates down, I try to pick them up and let them feed off my energy.”