Paths That Keep Crossing

Matt Lozovoy (left) and Garry Grosjean (right) on Joe Hick’s Memorial Field during Coasts Spring Training

When paths continuously keep crossing, some may call it a coincidence. But for Gary Grosjean and Matt Lozovoy, two California native right-handed pitchers, those crossings became something much bigger: opportunity.

From training at the same facility at the Chapman Baseball Compound, to later working together there, to facing each other at the junior college level, their baseball journeys have remained intertwined at nearly every stage. Even when their careers took them across the world to compete in the Australian Baseball League during the winter season, the connection stayed intact.

Now, those same paths have led them back together once again, this time wearing the same jersey for the Long Beach Coast.

THE MELTING POT

The Australian Baseball League is highly competitive and allows only two imports per team at a time. Originally placed on different teams, Grosjean and Lozovoy's paths crossed again as they played for the Perth Heats. 

With the season lasting only 10 to 12 weeks, both players had to adapt quickly to a faster-paced environment and unfamiliar competition. 

“The players might have a very different attack plan,” said Grosjean. “It was learning how to pitch to each hitter and trying to find those weaknesses that was very difficult.”

Facing international talent strengthened both of their games, as players from across the world brought different styles and approaches to the field. Lozovoy described the league as “the melting pot of baseball.”

THE CALL

Just days after getting his wisdom teeth removed, Grosjean got a call from the Idaho Falls Chukars manager, Troy Percival. At first, he may have wondered whether the anesthesia had never worn off. But the offer from Percival was real, marking the beginning of his independent baseball journey.

“It was cool to have him be in my corner and call on me,” said Grosjean.

Fast forward to 2026, Percival was hired as manager for the Long Beach Coast and gave Grosjean another call, offering him to come down for the Coast’s spring training, marking the beginning of their third season working together in independent baseball. Having played together in Australia, Grosjean suggested that Percival reach out to Lozovoy.

“He ended up getting the opportunity to come here for the spring training,” said Grosjean. “I'm hoping that he's a very big arm for us this year.”

The parallels the two have had throughout their careers left neither one surprised that they would cross paths once again. 

“I'm not shocked, considering the background,” said Lozovoy

Having a familiar face in your corner makes the transition less difficult.

“We've been together here in the States before, and we've been across the world together, too,” said Lozovoy. “So it makes my life a little easier.”

Spring Training continues this week as both players are fighting for a spot on a 25-man roster, with just 6 days until the season officially kicks off.

Written by Nina Corral