When a father of six ballplayers builds a cage in his own yard, it's built right, and this newly finished backyard batting cage in Edgewater, MD is exactly that kind of setup, made by a coach who trains hitters for a living.

The cage

Wayne's outdoor cage runs a spacious 55 feet long, 14 wide, and 14 tall, genuinely roomy in every dimension. It's built around a level wooden platform with a turf batter's box, and the BP thrower can work from multiple spots, with two rubber mats at the rear giving a level throwing surface. The cage is newly built and dialed in. Sessions run $50/hour, with baseball rentals (a five-gallon bucket) and a wood bat available as add-ons.

Who it's for

With room for up to eight guests and a tall, wide, 55-foot footprint, this cage handles solo hitters, a hitter and a live BP thrower, or a small group rotating reps. The multiple throwing positions and level surfaces make it a strong choice for real batting-practice work, not just tee swings.

The host

Wayne is 41 with six boys, all ballplayers, two older sons play for Gilman and St. Mary's, and he coaches three of his younger kids at Rawlings Prospects. He also trains hitters himself. This cage is an extension of that life's work, and he keeps it open: "please feel free to book the cage at any time."

Good to know

The build is new and the surfaces are level and thoughtfully laid out, so it's ready to work the moment you arrive. The tall 14-foot ceiling and 14-foot width give real room to swing freely without feeling boxed in. Bring your own balls and bat or add them on at booking. The one firm house rule is no alcohol, otherwise it's a straightforward, well-made space.