Softball hitters in the South Bay finally have a home base: this backyard batting cage in Chula Vista, CA was built by a longtime youth coach who wanted his own kids (and now the neighborhood's) to have a real place to train.

The cage

Coach Mike's private cage in East Chula Vista runs 50 feet long, 12 wide, and 10 tall, with lights for evening sessions. It's set up for softball with a Jugs softball pitching machine, dimple softballs and 12u softballs, an L-screen, and a warm-up tee and net. You're welcome to bring your own equipment if you prefer. Sessions run $50/hour, and hitting lessons are available if you're interested.

Who it's for

With room for up to eight guests and a dedicated softball setup, this cage suits individual hitters, a couple of teammates rotating reps, or a parent working with a young player. It's especially well-suited to rec and travel softball players getting ready for the season.

The host

Mike has coached softball for eight years, from t-ball up through 14u; his son played Little League baseball and his two daughters have played rec and travel softball. That experience shows in how the cage is run, thoughtful, welcoming, and built around real players' needs.

What hitters say

"Everything was as described (maybe even better). Jugs machine was very well kept. Host even set up a hitting net with a tee for the girls on deck. Better than expected! Amazing host and very friendly. The girls can't wait to return.". Samara

Good to know

The cage is private and lit for evening use, with simple house rules: no pets, no loud music, no smoking, no alcohol. If you want a set of eyes on your swing, ask about hitting lessons when you book.