Northbrook Kids Take Their Shot At MLB Pitch, Hit & Run

NORTHBROOK, IL — Northbrook Park District will host its MLB Pitch, Hit and Run competition on Friday, April 24, at Techny Prairie Park and Fields, 1750 Techny Road.

The free event is open to softball and baseball players ages 7 to 14, with registration open at nbparks.org/event/mlbphr through April 23 and onsite the day of the event.

Among those expected to compete is 12-year-old Austin Mats, who has placed first in his age group at the Northbrook event four years in a row. His younger sister, Skylar, will also return after placing second last year in the 9-10 years old category for softball.

Local winners move on to regional competition, called team championships, before a Major League Baseball game. Regional winners receive an all-expenses paid trip to compete in the finals during a World Series game.

"This is a great (and free!) opportunity to throw like a pro, swing for the fences and sprint to the finish line," said Dan Catron, recreation supervisor of the park District. "Perfect for building confidence, making memories, and having a blast on the field."