We’ve watched our son play baseball since he was 6 years old. Now, as he finishes high school in Oak Park and our daughter joins him at OPRF, we are ready to rebuild and reopen the batting cage property in Melrose Park at 1425 N 1st Ave. “Bat-a-Ball” was beloved by many residents of Melrose Park, Elmwood Park, Oak Park, River Forest, and even Chicago. We’ve named the new business Sam’s, after our beloved golden doodle dog who has been in the kids’ lives for over 13 years. We hope that you’ll join us with your friends and family to hit baseballs or softballs, enjoy a snack, a beverage, or a beer. We look forward to seeing you!
Features
Details
Facility Type
Outdoor Uncovered
Surface Type
Concrete
Amenities
Lights, Parking, Snacks
Cage includes
Baseballs, Softballs, Baseball Pitching Machine, Fast Pitch Softball Pitching Machine, Slow Pitch Softball Pitching Machine
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J C
2 months agoSo happy to have found this place! Really cool story of how the owner acquired this property that was abandoned for many years and made all the investments to outfit it with new machines and put it back into operation. Reasonable prices, locally produced ice cream, and beer - what else could you ask for? Owner is super nice and it's clear he's in it "for the love of the game" at this point, though I hope word spreads so he can at least make back his investment :-). This place could have easily just been turned into a junkyard or impound lot (I've seen it happen), so definitely a big "win" for the community to see it restored to its former glory. Nice selection of bats and helmets to borrow if you need them. Owner saw that one of the machines was pitching consistently outside the strike zone; he came over and adjusted it on the spot and gave me a token to try again without me even having to say a word.
Joel Perez
8 months agoI love this place! My friends from Chicago showed me this batting cage a while back and I enjoy my time there. Sometimes they play music while swinging bats. They got drinks and brew too. Prices are decent.
ROSALINDA ARIAS
3 years agoI am extremely happy they are opened! My boy's were excited and ready for some swinging! Lovely, clean, and fun spot for all ages! Definitely recommend.
Curtis Cox
2 years agoSo happy this place opened back up. They did a great job with the restoration. My son loves coming here. The staff, including Scott the owner himself, are really helpful. There are a lot of cages to use, both baseballs and softballs, at various speeds. Helmets and bats for loan are in good shape. It's usually not crowded. Pricing for everything is fair. The slower speed machines can be erratic or misfeed at times, but the crew is very good about resetting them and taking care of you when you let them know.
Ryan Pickering
11 months agoGreat location but the driveway just past the auto place can be difficult to see the first time so take it slow. They sell have yummy snacks and drinks, particularly the mixed slushy thing is tasty on a hot day. Everything from slow pitch to fast pitch. They have an arcade and pinball machine inside. Great for trying to hit some balls after work or as a kids birthday party spot. Friendly staff, clean bathrooms and most importantly convenient hours!