Congrats to these Ozark Turf Association Members

Congratulations to two of our OTA Members, Derek Edwards and Nathan Strait on their promotions with the Springfield Cardinals! And don’t forget to mark off Friday August 9th on your calendar when we can visit them at their workplace. Thanks to Syngenta for sponsoring OTA Family Fun Night with Fireworks, and maybe the Rally Skunk returns?

Derek Edwards, Director of Field and Stadium Operations

The leader of one of the most decorated grounds crews in Minor League Baseball, Derek has had a hand in curating the award-winning playing surface at Hammons Field since the Inaugural Season in 2005. Promoted to Director of Field Operations in 2022, Derek's role is now expanding once again to include stadium operation oversight as well as assisting in future stadium and field capital improvements.  His nearly two decades of experience at Hammons Field and the continued standard of excellence he has brought to field operations will help ensure that our ballpark continues to provide an unmatched experience for fans and continues to be a beacon of pride for our community.

Nathan Strait, Manager of Field Operations

After eight seasons with the club, Nathan will now manage daily field operations at Hammons Field. He has been a member of the front office in multiple capacities since 2016, originally as a seasonal member of the award-winning grounds crew at Hammons Field before shifting to be an Inside Sales Associate and Community Marketing Coordinator inside the office. The outdoors called Nathan back to the crew in a full-time capacity as the Field Operations Coordinator in 2022. Nathan brings his expertise to this new leadership role as the grounds crew continues to create a top-notch playing field experience for baseball's best prospects and fans alike.