CONGRATULATIONS: South Bend Cubs’ Michael Pearson Defies the Odds — Wins Second Visiting Clubhouse Manager of the Year with Heart and Humility
Baseball celebrates stars — the ones who hit walk-offs, throw shutouts, and make headlines. But every now and then, the game shines a light on someone who makes those moments possible without ever taking the field. For the South Bend Cubs, that person is Michael Pearson, the heartbeat of the visiting clubhouse.
This week, Pearson was named the Visiting Clubhouse Manager of the Year for the second time, a rare feat that reflects more than just his work ethic — it speaks to his consistency, leadership, and humanity in one of baseball’s most demanding, thankless roles.
“I’m truly honored,” Pearson said modestly after the announcement. “You never do this job expecting recognition. You just try to make everyone’s day a little easier.”
For those who know the grind, Pearson’s award comes as no surprise. The visiting clubhouse manager handles everything that fans never see — from preparing meals and organizing gear to ensuring visiting teams have a seamless experience. In many ways, he’s the first person opposing players meet when they arrive and the last they see before hitting the road.
“It’s one of the toughest jobs in baseball,” said a visiting coach from the Midwest League. “Long hours, constant pressure, but Michael does it with a smile. He treats everyone like family.”
Pearson first joined the South Bend Cubs in 2015, when the franchise was still finding its rhythm as a Class A affiliate. Over the years, he’s become a symbol of professionalism and compassion within the organization. Players describe him as a “glue guy” — someone who keeps the operation running no matter how chaotic things get.
“People like Michael are why baseball works,” said Cubs manager Buddy Bailey. “He’s steady, reliable, and genuinely cares. You can’t teach that.”
Winning the award twice — the first in 2022, now again in 2025 — is unprecedented at the Single-A level. It underscores his reputation among league peers and the respect he’s earned across clubhouses.
Behind his easygoing nature lies a relentless attention to detail. He knows how players take their coffee, remembers their birthdays, and ensures that every piece of equipment is where it needs to be. It’s the kind of invisible work that builds trust and fosters belonging — even for visiting players far from home.
For Pearson, though, it’s not about the spotlight. “It’s about people,” he said. “I’ve met incredible players, coaches, and staff through this game. You learn that success isn’t just on the field — it’s in how you treat others.”
That humility resonates deeply in South Bend, a town where baseball feels like family. Fans often see the players, but those inside Four Winds Field know that Pearson’s calm voice and steady hands are as much a part of the team as any jersey on the diamond.
As the Cubs look ahead to another season, Pearson’s legacy continues quietly — a reminder that baseball’s greatest victories aren’t always measured in wins or losses, but in the people who make the game better.
For Michael Pearson, that’s more than enough.
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