June 19, 2024 at 5:54pm
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Article by Elena Ferrarin
Communications Coordinator
Northbrook Park District
Whether you’ve never taken a swing, want to host a unique event or practice with teammates, the Northbrook Park District’s batting cages are the best place to hit a baseball this summer. The facility at Techny Prairie Park and Fields, 1750 Techny Road in Northbrook, features six batting cages with machines that pitch baseballs. Four of the machines can also pitch 12-inch softballs. Players can choose cages with different ball speed.
“This is a great place to have some fun this summer while practicing hitting pitches from slow baseball to high arch softball,” Northbrook Park District Recreation Supervisor Dan Catron said.
Techny Prairie Park and Fields also offers a 22,000-square foot skate park, lighted turf fields for soccer and lacrosse, four baseball fields, the nine-hole Anetsberger Golf Course, educational and recreational trails, a playground, and several walking and jogging paths.
Beginning in June, the batting cages’ summer hours are 12-9pm Monday through Friday, 10am-8pm on Saturday and 12-8pm on Sunday.
The batting cages are an excellent amenity that provides great value, customers said.
Robert Munson said he likes to take his grandson, whose game has improved as a result. “The park district makes all the difference for youth and adult sports options,” Munson said.
The facility’s customer service is “friendly and helpful” for kids, customer David Feinartz said. His daughter is a softball coach who uses the batting cages to help build her team’s self-confidence, he added.
Players are required to bring their bats and helmets. Walk-ups are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, if capacity allows. Customers also can purchase tokens, which allow 12 pitches. The cost is $2 per token or $10 for six tokens.
The group rental fee is $145 per hour with unlimited pitches and exclusive access to all six batting cages. A minimum one-hour rental is required for groups. For group rentals, call (847) 291-2933.