A longtime employee with the Fresno Grizzlies will become the team’s next general manager. Andrew Milios, who has served in various capacities with the Grizzlies for over 17 years, will replace Derek Franks, who announced his departure last week.
Franks left the team to become the new chief operating officer for Lee’s Air, Heating and Plumbing in Fresno.
“It’s bittersweet for me,” said Milios, who spoke with the Fresno Chamber of Commerce on Monday. “I’m excited to take the reins but sad to see one of my best friends go.”
Milios, a graduate of California State University, Monterey Bay, began his career with the Grizzlies in June of 2008 as a part-time inside sales representative.
“Derek Franks was the one who hired me,” Milios said. “I crashed on his couch when I came to Fresno until I got on my feet.”
It has been a steady ascent since then. Milios became an account executive, the head of sales, then, in 2019, the assistant general manager.
“There is, without a doubt, no one better to lead this team into the next era of Grizzlies baseball,” said Derek Franks, former President of the Fresno Grizzlies. “Andrew’s passion for Grizzlies baseball is unrivaled, and I am excited to cheer him and the team on as they take on the new season.”
Milios said his number one goal as the new GM is to “move the mission forward and make Chukchansi Park one of the top parks in minor league baseball.”
Fan-favorite theme nights and new promotions are on this summer’s calendar. Ag Night (April 10), Star Wars Night (May 15), and Health Care Heroes and First Responders Night (July 3) all return to Chukchansi this summer, along with several new promotions, like SpongeBob Night (April 11), Toy Story Night (May 29), and even a 6-7 Night on, of course, June 7.
On theme nights, said Milios, the team will wear themed jerseys to match, which will then be auctioned off to fans. In addition, the Grizzlies will give away replica jerseys on April 11 (2015 National Championship) and May 16 (Growlifornia Bear Flag).
The 2026 season marks the Grizzlies’ 25th year in Downtown Fresno and their 28th baseball season since debuting in 1998. Since opening, Chukchansi Park has hosted more than 1,500 professional baseball games and more than nine million fans. This season, that number will eclipse 10 million.
The team has been owned by Diamond Baseball Holdings since 2023. DBH’s portfolio boasts 48 minor league teams, including Single-A teams in San Jose (Giants) and Rancho Cucamonga (Angels).
“Andrew’s journey with the Grizzlies is a testament to his commitment and leadership,” said Pat Battle and Peter Freund, Executive Chairman and CEO, respectively, of Diamond Baseball Holdings. “We are confident that with Andrew at the helm, the Grizzlies will continue to build on their strong foundation and deliver outstanding experiences for fans throughout the Central Valley.”
The Grizzlies home opener is Tuesday, April 7, at 7:05 p.m. versus the Stockton Ports.
For more updates on Fresno County development and business initiatives, stay connected with the Fresno Chamber of Commerce.
