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For Pintard, the community is the main source of the team’s support. He talks with a bank president for about 15 minutes, filling her in on the team’s chances this summer and describing the ways that the bank’s name will appear on tickets and a banner at the ballpark. Pintard has been working as a coach for more than two hours today, and he has yet to set foot on the grass infield. Running the Clubhouse Once his office work is done, Pintard can finally head to the ballpark. That’s when his work really gets going. Even as he walks in from the parking lot, he is met by the intern about the ice situation; thanks to a little muscle, the ice is in place for the game. That’s one problem solved. A reporter comes up and needs “a couple minutes, Coach,” to tape an interview for the radio. Pintard tells him he’ll be free once he checks in with his other coaches. A fan of the team, at the ballpark early to watch batting practice, stops by to shake Pintard’s hand. He has an idea about who to pitch against Conejo. Pintard listens politely, and moves on as soon as he can. Fans are part of the bargain of just about any sports situation. Learning to understand and deal with them takes patience and practice.

12 C areers O ff the F ield • Coaching & Scouting