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Reddick reads to elementary school students
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Josh Reddick answers a question from a Blandford Elementary School student Wednesday morning. - photo by Mark Lastinger/staff

RINCON -- Josh Reddick has invited everyone in Effingham County to share in his World Series success -- including elementary school students.

The Houston Astros outfielder, a 2005 South Effingham High School graduate, has been reading to elementary school students this week. On Wednesday, he visited the Blandford Blue Jays,

Reddick was greeted with deafening cheers as he entered Blandford's packed gymnasium.

"That was loud! Good job!," Reddick said before starting to read a story about -- what else? -- baseball. 

Reddick read expressively, shouting, "You're out!" about midway through the book.

After finishing the reading session, Reddick answered questions from his young audience. Several children excitedly ran to the microphone when it was their turn.

Some of their queries were repetitive. He was asked three times how long he has played baseball. Twice, he was asked if he had ever played basketball.  The 30-year-old Gold Glove winner answered each time with a gentle smile.

The students were especially interested in Reddick's age. 

One student asked if Reddick has ever played against the Atlanta Braves. Reddick jumped on the question like a hanging curveball.

"I hit a grand slam against them this year," Reddick said, referencing a game in early July that his Astros won 16-4.

One student wanted to know how many games the Astros lost in 2017.

Reddick replied, "I think 61, but we won 100."

The event closed with Reddick high fiving every student as they left the gym.

"Thank y'all for letting me do this this morning," Reddick said. "I had so much fun and I hope you did, too."

Reddick will continue to celebrate his World Series success Saturday at 8:22 a.m. before the grand opening of the Clarence E, Morgan Complex in Springfield. The unusual starting time is a nod to Reddick's jersey number, 22.

The parade route includes portions of Pine Street, Cleveland Street, Laurel Street and will end at the parking lot next to Gaffney’s.

Reddick will attend an 11 a.m. home run derby following the 10:15 a.m. grand opening of the Clarence E. Morgan Complex.

Last month, Reddick participated in the Rincon Lions Club Christmas Parade and the groundbreaking of Josh Reddick Field. He donated nearly $1 million toward the construction of the turf field at the Morgan Complex that will be accessible for children with disabilities.