WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. – This morning, Minor League Baseball announced Sacramento River Cats Vice President of Field Operations, Chris Shastid, as the Pacific Coast League Groundskeeper of the Year. The winners were selected using the results of surveys of league managers, players, and executives throughout the 2026 season.
In his 14th year with Sacramento, he delivered an exceptional playing surface for 156 total baseball games. That includes 75 Athletics games, 75 River Cats games, a Giants exhibition game, two Banana Ball games, and three upcoming Cosmic Baseball games.
Shastid, alongside his Field Operations Managers, Carson Race and Alexis Rogers, kept the Sutter Health Park field ready for twice as many games as any other minor league team while navigating one of the most demanding schedules in professional baseball.
“Chris and his team met an extraordinary challenge again this season, delivering an exceptional playing surface for 156 games,” said River Cats President and COO Chip Maxson. “Game after game, he earned consistent praise from baseball operations, clubhouse staff and veteran groundskeeping professionals. We’re proud to see Chris earn this well-deserved recognition for the leadership, care, and commitment he brings to Sutter Health Park every day.”
Shastid led his groundskeeping team in meeting the distinct needs of two home teams, balancing each club’s preferences for infield, mound and home plate firmness, playability and overall turf speed. His leadership and attention to detail ensured a consistently exceptional playing surface at Sutter Health Park.
“Chris exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding Minor League groundskeeper through his leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the playing surface at Sutter Health Park,” said Clay Wood, Head Groundskeeper, Oakland Coliseum, “He leads his crew with professionalism and pride, creating a culture where attention to detail, accountability, and teamwork are the standard every day. Managing the field for both the A’s and the River Cats presents an incredible challenge, yet Chris and his crew consistently deliver a playing surface of exceptional quality regardless of the demands placed upon it.”
Groundskeeping excellence extends beyond a field’s appearance to the trust it earns from players, coaches and colleagues. Shastid earned that trust time and time again, prioritizing player safety, supporting competitive integrity and elevating the ballpark experience for players and fans alike.