FIELD OF THE YEAR PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL
SportsField Management( SFM): Congratulations on the Field of the Year win. What are you most proud of with this win? Ben Hartman: I’ m most proud of the consistency and commitment it represents. This award reflects the daily attention to detail, long hours, and pride our crew takes in the field— not just on game days, but year round. It’ s gratifying to see that dedication recognized, especially knowing the standard of fields across the industry.
SFM: What were the biggest challenges you faced with the winning field, and how have you approached those challenges? Hartman: The biggest challenges have been balancing heavy use with maintaining field quality, along with managing weather extremes throughout the season. We’ ve approached these challenges through proactive planning, open communication, and being willing to adjust as conditions change. Staying flexible and making data-driven decisions has been key. Another tidbit I like to add is the climate report for Wichita in 2025 that shows just how challenging it was of a year. Wichita experienced a very wet year in 2025, ending with a total rainfall of 40.45 inches( 6.14 inches above average), significantly above the 30-year average. That made it one of the wettest years on record, particularly noted for its wet summer( June- August) and heavy rains in June— including a single-day total of 4.19 inches— which led to 49 tarp pulls, and one ripped tarp.
SFM: Can you share a little about your overall management approach to the winning field and what you feel have been the most important aspects to getting this field to an awardwinning level? Hartman: Our management approach is built around preparation, consistency and accountability. We focus heavily on preventative maintenance, proper cultural practices, and setting clear expectations for field performance. Attention to detail, along with willingness to evaluate and improve processes, has been essential in elevating the field to an award-winning level.
sportsfieldmanagementonline. com March 2026 | SportsField Management
15