Some stories deserve attention not simply because of who is behind them, but because of the lives they have the power to change. Strikeout Baseball is one of those stories.

What began as a personal dream has grown into something much bigger — a vision now gaining national recognition and building momentum across communities.

Founded by Jeff Lazaros, Strikeout Baseball was designed to create a safe, accessible space while revitalizing our national pastime. After nearly a decade of relentless effort, and 20 years of vision and planning, the first stadium now stands in Lansing, Michigan. The motivation and ultimate goal is to bring these miniature stadiums to communities in an effort to grow the game with the next generation of aspiring ball players.

Growing up in Detroit, baseball was more than just a pastime for Jeff — it was his foundation. As a left-handed pitcher who played through college, he spent his childhood summers fully immersed in the game. His first job at Tiger Stadium deepened his appreciation for everything baseball represents: discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.

When his dream of playing Major League Baseball didn’t come to fruition, he didn’t walk away from the sport. Instead, he asked himself a new question — how could he give back to the game that had given him so much?

The answer became Strikeout Baseball.

Strikeout Baseball is now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Lansing, home to a first-of-its-kind, 5,000-square-foot mini-stadium built on fully synthetic turf and designed for walk-up play. Games can be played with as few as two participants — removing the barriers that often keep kids out of organized sports.

“Access changes everything,” Jeff says. “Not every kid has 17 other players and a travel team. But every kid deserves a chance to step up to the plate.”

Strikeout Baseball is a fast-paced, simplified version of the game focused on the pitcher-batter dynamic. It requires minimal equipment and space, making it approachable, engaging, and easy to play.

The field is free to use. Always.

“I wanted a place where kids could just show up and play. No fees. No pressure. Just baseball.”

After years of perseverance and community support, Jeff brought the vision to life with help from local businesses. The stadium has quickly become a gathering place for families, drawing visitors and building connection through the game.

Jeff is quick to point out that this accomplishment was never his alone. “I am incredibly proud and honored to have a board that has stood behind this project and worked tirelessly to make it happen,” he shares. “It’s incredible to have such a dedicated group of people who have worked in unison to achieve something this meaningful.”

Strikeout Baseball also hosts free clinics led by local, collegiate, and professional coaches, offering quality instruction, mentorship, and confidence-building opportunities many young athletes might not otherwise experience.

Recognized for Regional Impact

In November 2025, Strikeout Baseball received the Celebration of Regional Growth Award from the Lansing Chamber of Commerce, highlighting its lasting community impact and the economic momentum the project has helped create.

Strikeout Baseball will host its Opening Day celebration on May 9, a special event designed to be both exciting and meaningful for the entire community. MLB Hall of Famer John Smoltz will be in attendance, and the day will feature games, food trucks, and complimentary clinics for young athletes.

Beyond the on-field activities, Jeff plans to honor veterans and raise awareness for those facing mental health challenges connected to military service. These moments of recognition reinforce that this facility represents more than baseball — it stands as a space for healing, hope, and genuine community connection.

When Hall of Fame baseball player John Smoltz was asked to lend his name to this project, it was an immediate yes. “This is the game we grew up on,” says Smoltz. In a way to give back to his community, John has provided more than just his name.

John has been involved in the development and strategic planning of this initiative. “I believe Strikeout Baseball will reinvigorate our young people's interest in this great game of baseball giving a quality alternative to our youth”. Honorable mention to John Smoltz Sr. who played a big role in bringing Strikeout Baseball to life.

Jeff shares, “Watching this stadium become a reality has been truly surreal. The purpose behind it has become my life’s mission. Seeing a dream transform into something tangible is an achievement in itself, but even more meaningful is knowing it has become a place where kids can learn the game, create lifelong memories, and simply be kids who dream big. I am incredibly proud of Strikeout Baseball and honored to offer something greater than just a stadium or a game. This project was built to give kids opportunity, inspiration, and a brighter future.”