PLAINFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — With Michigan weather being predictably unpredictable in the last few weeks, groundskeepers at LMCU Ballpark have had their hands full preparing the field for the West Michigan Whitecaps’ home opener Tuesday.
“Monday it was the mid-70s and today is 40s. “Woo, OK. I’ve had five layers on,” head groundskeeper Mitch Hooten told News 8 on a recent visit to the ballpark in Comstock Park. “Compared to two weeks ago, it’s definitely waking up, because I was getting a little worried.”
What’s new at LMCU Ballpark ahead of 2026 season
The weather meant he and his team had only a week to get the field ready. But Hooten has the skill to make it happen: He’s the Midwest League and High-A Groundskeeper of the Year, selected by Minor League Baseball.
“I went to school for this. I knew this is what I wanted to do since I was in seventh grade,” he said…