Oregon grad earns MiLB award for work as clubhouse manager

Jason Klatt, a graduate of Clay High School, has been named the visiting clubhouse manager of the year by Minor League Baseball (MiLB).

Other award winners included Joey Stevenson (Indianapolis) for head groundskeeper of the year and Mike Brown (Omaha) for home clubhouse manager of the year. The winners were selected using the results of surveys from league managers, players and executives throughout the 2025 season.

“It feels good to be recognized by all of them, like they see and appreciate all the hard work that me and the staff put in when they come to town,” Klatt said.

Klatt lettered in baseball and soccer while at Clay, where he graduated from in 2006. Upon graduation from the University of Toledo in 2011, he linked up with Detroit’s longtime clubhouse manager, Jim Schmakel, who helped him land an internship with the organization.

Initially, his role included extensive work in the video and film department. He would help chart games, film bullpens and batting practice, and help in the cage, among other duties. With that work, the team used it as a resource for the coaches and players to help with swing and pitch mechanics.

“Minor League Baseball is proud to recognize 33 outstanding individuals and their staffs for exceptional contributions during the 2025 season,” said Peter Woodfork, Major League Baseball’s Senior Vice President of Minor League Operations and Development. “Their commitment to delivering the best possible playing conditions and clubhouse experiences for our players and coaches is truly appreciated.”

Once the COVID pandemic hit, though, Major League Baseball chose Fifth Third Field in Toledo as an alternate site, which provided an extra need for work in the clubhouse, and that’s how Klatt grew into his current role with the organization.

Klatt not only manages the visitor’s clubhouse in Toledo, but he’ll shuffle up to Detroit when the Mud Hens are on the road and when the minor league season ends. He also makes the trip to Lakeland each spring training with the Tigers. During those times in Detroit during the regular season, he’ll help with day-to-day operations, assisting in the visiting clubhouse, or getting equipment transported between the two locations.