At the University of Maryland, the baseball team relies on a small but indispensable group of student managers who keep the program operating behind the scenes.
Grant Kirstukas, a senior business analytics major from Timonium, and Aaron Waldman, also a senior, have taken on responsibilities that rival those of a full‑time position, from preparing scouting reports to stocking the dugout with snacks before each game.
The Hidden Engine of Maryland Baseball
Their work begins long before the first pitch, as they compile detailed scouting reports that give hitters and pitchers a strategic edge, and they spend hours testing communication systems to ensure seamless game‑day operations.
During games they log every pitch, track equipment, and handle the logistics of travel, making sure the team has the food and drinks it needs to stay energized.
Balancing a rigorous academic schedule with these duties is no small feat; Kirstukas admits that the workload can feel like a second job, yet both he and Waldman say the experience has forged lasting connections within the program.
For Kirstukas, the role is more than a résumé booster — it is a stepping stone toward a potential career in baseball, and he is focused on finishing his college season strong while immersing himself in the team culture.
Waldman echoes the sentiment, noting that the camaraderie built with coaches, players, and fellow managers is one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience.
University of Maryland’s athletic department highlights the critical role these students play, emphasizing that without their behind‑the‑scenes efforts the program would not run as smoothly.