Former MLB Pitcher to Open New Training Center in Hiawatha

Aspiring baseball players with their sights on the big leagues will soon have a new place to train, thanks to a former major league baseball pitcher.

New Training Center Opening Soon in Hiawatha

The Corridor Business Journal reports that Eldred Baseball and Performance will serve baseball players ranging from youth to the professional level. The facility is founded by former major league pitcher and Iowa native Cal Eldred and his son, CJ Eldred. The CBJ reports that Eldred said that the center will offer instruction, programs, and camps for players of all ages and levels.

Cal Eldred Spent Over a Decade in the Big Leagues

After pitching for the University of Iowa, Cal Eldred was drafted 17th overall by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 1989 MLB Draft. The CBJ reports that Eldred played for the Brewers, the Chicago White Sox, and the St. Louis Cardinals during his 14-year MLB career. He finished his playing career after an appearance in the 2004 World Series.

After his playing career was over, Eldred served as a special assistant to the GM with the St. Louis Cardinals and the Kansas City Royals. He also served as the Royals' pitching coach from 2018 to 2022, according to the CBJ. CJ Eldred also pitched for the University of Iowa and spent time in the Kansas City Royals organization.

When Will the New Center Be Open?

The CBJ reports that the new center, located at 705 Tower Terrace Road in Hiawatha, plans to be open by mid-January. The facility's first clinic will be held at the new center on January 26th. You can sign up HERE.