Raymond De La Cruz has been contracted to run youth baseball clinics for the likes of Derek Jeter, Carlos Delgado, and David Ortiz. So it makes complete sense that the veteran baseball coach is introducing an instructional baseball program for kids in the city. Starting January 28, On Deck NY will operate 16 classes on the Upper East Side, including one called "Baby Bombers," for 2- and 3-year-old boys and girls ($530 for 15 45-minute sessions). “I pay a lot of attention to programs for toddlers, to find new ways to keep kids interested,” says De La Cruz, who will be using bubbles as targets and providing light-up bats and balls. De La Cruz will be the lead coach for every class, supported by coaches—either long time high school coaches or former Minor League ball players—who have all been certified by the National Baseball Coaches Association. Why start the program so young? “Kids these days aren’t outside playing tag and hopscotch, so their athletic ability and hand eye coordination is diminishing," explains De La Cruz. "You need to start focusing on that really early, while still making it fun.”  

On Deck NY
St. Jean's Community Center, 184 E. 76th Street
New York Sports Club, 1637 Third Avenue
646.808.4926
ondeckny.com