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KPBS Evening Edition

Baseball Executives, Jobseekers In San Diego For Winter Meetings

Baseball Winter Meetings
Nicholas McVicker
Baseball Winter Meetings

For the first time in nearly 30 years, Major League Baseball's Winter Meetings are being held in San Diego. This is the largest gathering of baseball executives. They come together to prepare for next season.

"I've been in minor league baseball 25 years," said Tim Brunswick, vice president of Minor League Baseball Business Operations. "As far as the space and the attention it brings to a city, they compare this to the Democratic and Republican national conventions, believe it or not.”

Organizers expect about 3,000 people at the event, which is underway at the San Diego Convention Center and the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. The mix of activities include a trade show and player trades.

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For some attendees, the big draw is the chance at a job. Attendees can meet face-to-face with baseball executives at a job fair and interview on-site.

"I'm looking for club house positions," jobseeker Royce Reed said. "Taking care of players, taking care of equipment, inventory, food preparations, delivery."

Travis Voss said he flew in from Milwaukee to look for a full-time job.

"I've loved baseball all my life," Voss said. "It’s been my passion. When I can work in it, I don't consider that a job. I have something I'm passionate about that I can look forward to going to in the morning. That's the big appeal for me."

December is considered the height of baseball hiring season. An average of 400 to 500 jobs are posted each year.

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The convention runs through Wednesday, with a closing gala at Petco Park.