Top hitting instructors

Todd Poe in Southern Illinois at the Future Swings Academy.

Marty Patterson, Todd Fine, and Steve Hayward are among the best.

Mark Hayward at the Ballyard in Elmhurst.

Todd Fine and Marty Patterson

Pat Whealy and Jim Donovan at Strikes.

This is always a great thread. But my vote always go's to Steve Hayward at Strikes Baseball Acadamy. I always leave Strikes knowing that I am a better hitter than when I got there. Thanks Steve for all you have done for me.

Are Steve Hayward and Mark Hayward related?

The newest fellow with the best instruction is Joe Mazzuca. One of the best hitter's in Illinois HS history is giving lessons @ Mother Guerin on weekends. He can be contacted @ (708)227-4819

Soxnole- Is Joe still affiliated with a team?

Sox...agreed. Joe is certainly one of the best and the kids respond well to him. Bobby Stevens has improved greatly working with Joe, as have others. Anyone interested in getting lessons from Joe can call the number that Sox provided or PM me.

stickwatcher, Joe has received offers and is evaluating them. He has a few options as he asked for and received his release from the Florida Marlins.

il2008
How many miles are you from Stikes?

lol...In my opinion, when you hit .207 and strike out 1 out of every 4 times to the plate and you're 22 or so, they release you, you don't ask them for a release.

MLB organizations are real harsh on college players who they deem to be "organizational players" and don't produce immediately...Their attitude: let's see what we get in the next draft.

I was a hamburger, I know. All of you in high school hoping to get drafted and then give up some college and college money for $750 per month (for 3 months and then you have to get a real job) and a couple of coupons to McDonald's.

That is why school/college is so important for high schoolers...Can take away your dream of playing professional baseball, but they can't take what you have in your mind away from you.

Pony Mom- We come from Batavia to go to Strikes, it's about 35 minutes on a Sunday afternoon so it's about 30 miles. It's worth it!

Just Curious if the following take hitting lesson's and with who?
R.O'connor- oprf
D.Cales ss- mt.carmel
B.Steven's Holy Cross
M.Stalowy JCA.
N.Mitidiero Lockport.
J. Benson Jca.
k.Smalley St.Charles

I have been to strikes, and Steve is great. Right now i have been going to MVP in Lake forest for my lessons.

I believe Cales, Powers and Brewer work out at Strikes.

Ruairi O'Connor has worked with Pat Whealy @ Strikes for the past 8 years.

Stevens - works with Joe Mazzuca and at WSA with Marco (sorry don't know last name), but he has worked with many pros including A-Rod.