Around the Diamond: 2000's Star Brett Grandstrand
What years did you play with the Washington Wild Things?
I played for the Wild Things in years 2006, 2008-2009
What have you been doing since your time in the Frontier League?
Personally, I got married to Ashlee Grandstrand in 2010, and now have a 4-year-old little girl named Aleena and a 3-year-old boy named Bryce. Professionally, I spent time as an assistant manager at Adidas; I was also an account manager for HealthCare services, before joining 84 Lumber, where I have been for 7 years. I am currently a Commercial/Multi-Family Analyst with the Install Sales Division for 84 Lumber.
What is your favorite memory as a Wild Thing?
My favorite memory is the people, my coaches and my teammates. I loved showing up to the ballpark every day and seeing Ross Vecchio, Steve Zavacky, Chris Blaine, Randy Gore and Wayne Herrod; just talking to them, getting to know them and calling them my friends. I enjoyed my coaches John Massarelli, Mark Mason and Greg Jelks. Each of them was different, but I learned a lot from all of them. I loved my teammates - many of them I still talk to this day. Patrick Sadler was even the best man in my wedding!
What is your favorite memory playing baseball overall?
My favorite memory of baseball overall is winning three conference Championships in college at Coastal Carolina University, and winning the South Atlantic League Championship with the Columbus Catfish in 2007.
Why do you encourage people to attend Frontier League games?
I encourage people to attend Frontier League games because its guys that truly love the game. They are trying to make a name for themselves, or they are trying to hold on for one more shot. The atmosphere is extremely family oriented and so much fun to be around. There are no agenda; it is just baseball and family.
Why do you love the Washington Wild Things?
The Wild Things hold a special place in my heart, and always will because it is where I met my wife. She started as an intern, and then was in charge of merchandising and the team store for a couple years. I met her in 2006. I love Ross, Steve, Chris Blaine and Randy Gore, the former radio guy. I consider them friends. The relationships I made are life long, and those are good people with whom I owe a lot to.
