In a world where professional baseball players are constantly on the move, the logistics of transporting personal belongings can become an overwhelming challenge. The story of Michael and Kali Papierski illustrates just how stressful this process can be, especially when unexpected complications arise. From sudden trades to misplaced vehicles, the couple’s experiences highlight the need for specialized services that cater to the unique demands of professional athletes.

Empowering Baseball Families with Seamless Vehicle Relocation

Navigating the Chaotic World of Professional Trades

The whirlwind of professional baseball often leaves players and their families scrambling to adapt to sudden changes. In 2022, catcher Michael Papierski experienced a whirlwind six-week period where he was traded from the Houston Astros to the San Francisco Giants, made his major-league debut, was sent back down to Triple A, and then traded again to the Cincinnati Reds. During this tumultuous time, Michael and Kali found themselves without their truck, which had seemingly vanished into a shipping void. This experience underscores the unpredictable nature of professional baseball and the challenges faced by players and their families.Kali recalls the stress of not only losing their vehicle but also valuable personal items, including Michael’s 2021 American League championship ring. “Your whole life is in there,” she said, emphasizing the importance of having a reliable system in place for such critical moments. The transient lifestyle of professional athletes requires more than just athletic prowess; it demands logistical expertise to manage the constant relocations.

A Growing Industry Tailored for Athletes

Recognizing the unique needs of professional athletes, a burgeoning industry has emerged to address the logistical challenges of moving vehicles and personal belongings. One company leading the charge is Getaway Day Agency, founded by Laurel Sharpe, wife of longtime minor-league pitcher Steve Sharpe. With over 600 clients in 2024, 75 percent of whom were baseball players, Getaway Day Agency has become a trusted name in the field. The company’s success lies in its team of agents who are all wives or significant others of current or former professional ballplayers, bringing firsthand experience to their work.Laurel Sharpe saw an opportunity to create meaningful employment for women in the baseball community while offering a flexible work schedule. She launched Getaway Day Agency in January 2023, assembling what she calls her “dream team” of agents. These women bring invaluable knowledge and empathy to their roles, having lived through similar experiences. Their insights ensure that clients receive personalized service, understanding the nuances of packing vehicles to the brim with irreplaceable items.

Building Careers While Supporting Families

For many of the agents at Getaway Day Agency, the job offers more than just financial stability; it provides a sense of purpose and professional growth. Kali Papierski, who joined the agency last spring, appreciates the flexibility that allows her to balance her career with family life. Before joining Getaway Day, Kali worked a remote job that required a rigid schedule, making it difficult to meet commitments while traveling with Michael. Now, she can manage her own clients and earn commissions without being tied to a strict timetable.Kristen LaRoche, whose husband Andy is a coach in the Kansas City Royals minor-league system, echoes similar sentiments. As a stay-at-home mom to two young daughters, Kristen found fulfillment in contributing to her family while maintaining her identity outside of motherhood. “Being able to have my time and feel like I have more of a purpose than just my kids and being a wife makes you feel better,” she said. The agency’s structure allows agents to thrive professionally while supporting their families and navigating the demands of the baseball lifestyle.

Seamless Support from Within the Baseball Community

The agents at Getaway Day Agency leverage their extensive networks within the baseball world to recruit new clients and provide unparalleled service. For instance, Kristen LaRoche connected with Travis Voss, Milwaukee Brewers’ minor-league clubhouse manager, through her brother, former MLB infielder Scooter Gennett. This connection led to assisting with the relocation of 15 to 20 cars for members of the Brewers organization during the past season.Travis Voss, who has spent nine years working out of Milwaukee’s Arizona complex, understands the importance of seamless logistics for players. “Once you start working in a role like this, and especially the longer you do it, you see the behind-the-scenes stuff that the average fan going to the game has no idea about,” Voss explained. Clubhouse managers play a crucial role in facilitating vehicle transportation, ensuring that players can focus on their performance without worrying about logistical details.

A Support System Beyond Just Vehicles

For players and their families, the items transported in their vehicles are often as important as the vehicles themselves. Madeline Poteet, whose husband Cody played for the New York Yankees, emphasizes the significance of trust when entrusting one’s belongings to a shipping service. “You’re living essentially out of a truck, and we need to trust somebody to get it from point A to point B,” she said. The contents of these vehicles can range from baseball gear to family necessities like pack-and-plays for babies, ensuring that everyone feels at home on the road.The agents at Getaway Day Agency pride themselves on providing not just a service but a support system. They understand the unique challenges faced by players and their families, offering guidance and empathy every step of the way. As Kali Papierski noted, “These are all of our things to live.” The camaraderie among the agents fosters a supportive environment, allowing them to share advice and build lasting friendships.

A Bright Future for Women in Sports Logistics

Getaway Day Agency represents a growing trend of women-owned businesses catering to the specific needs of professional athletes. By combining their personal experiences with professional expertise, these women are reshaping the industry and empowering others to pursue meaningful careers. Laurel Sharpe envisions a future where more women can join the agency, contributing to the success of both their families and the players they serve.As the baseball season approaches, Getaway Day Agency stands ready to assist players in managing the logistics of their lives. Through their dedication and expertise, they ensure that players can focus on the game while knowing their most precious possessions are in capable hands.