FL Washington Wild Things

Wild Things Shortstop Brett Grandstrand announces retirement

Published on September 24, 2009 under Frontier League (FL)
Washington Wild Things News Release


Washington, PA - For Wild Things fans who frequented CONSOL Energy Park on a regular basis during the 2008 season, the chant, "BRETT BRETT GRANDSTRAND" is as familiar as the team itself. Brett Grandstrand, the fan favorite of many Wild Things' enthusiasts, retired from Frontier League Baseball as Washington's season concluded several weeks ago at the Washington County ballpark.

The short stop, a native of New Castle, Washington, claims to have loved playing ball in Washington, PA. "The Wild Things meant everything to me personally," said Grandstrand, who began playing professional baseball in 2004 when he was selected in the 13th round by the Pittsburgh Pirates. "Affiliated ball is structured in many ways, but in Washington it was about the guys, the atmosphere, and about winning."

"Brett has been an integral part of the Wild Things since 2006. Not only was he one of the best defensive shortstops this league has seen, he brought a level of enthusiasm and fun to the field each and every time he stepped between the lines," said Ross Vecchio General Manager of the Wild Things. "He will be missed on the field and in our community."

Grandstrand spent 2004 and 2005 in Williamsport of the New York Penn League. "If it weren't for Chris Carter, I would have retired in 2006," added Grandstrand. "Chris, Ross, and Mazz (John Massarelli, then manager of the Wild Things) talked me into playing for the Wild Things."

After a season with the Wild Things, Grandstrand moved on to the Devil Rays system in Georgia where he spent a year playing short stop and second base. But he returned to Washington in 2008, enjoying his most productive year as a professional baseball player. He saw several career bests in '08, including 87 hits, 48 runs, and 47 RBI. And he became a fans favorite: one group of fans would chant, "Brett Brett Grandstrand" each time the short stop went to bat.

During the off season of 2008-2009, Grandstrand served as Ringgold High School head coach. "I really enjoy coaching," said Grandstrand. It's more fun than playing because it's not about me...it's about them. It's great when a kid finally 'gets' it."

Grandstrand, whose career goals include coaching, plans to finish his college degree. "I was drafted as a junior, so I didn't finish." Ultimately, he would like to coach on the collegiate level or in independent baseball. "I love to coach and coaching at a college or in the Frontier League would be a great way to continue my career."

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Frontier League Stories from September 24, 2009


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