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DAVID CASEY

Owner & President

DAVID CASEY

Owner & President

He has a passion for coaching young, eager players who want to learn the right way to play the game. David is incredibly excited about the staff that he has put together. Every player will benefit greatly from the instruction we are able to provide.

David was born and raised in Whitefish Bay, Wisc., and graduated from Whitefish Bay High School in 2007. To begin his baseball career, David participated in the Whitefish Bay Little League. During high school, David played for four years on Whitefish Bay’s varsity team, twice earning 1st team All-State honors. After graduating from Whitefish Bay High School, David attended the University of Notre Dame on an athletic scholarship during which time he won the Big East Conference Home Run Derby (defeating current major leaguer George Springer). David also won the MVP award in the summer of 2009 while playing in the California Collegiate League. Upon graduation, David played professionally in the United States on various Independent League baseball teams and overseas in Australia. While playing for the Wanneroo Giants in the Professional Western Australia State League, David was named an All-League outfielder. David also was named head of player development for the U-8 to U-17 Wanneroo Baseball Club. In 2014, a number of players that David worked with represented Australia in the Little League World Series. While playing, David excelled at multiple positions, including 1st base, as a left-handed pitcher and outfielder. He will be giving instruction for hitting, pitching and multiple defensive positions.

ROB HAGEDORN

Director of Operations

ROB HAGEDORN

Director of Operations

Rob has a passion for coaching and helping players achieve their goals, whether that's making the HS JV2 team, Varsity, or going on to play college baseball. He strives to find each individual player's motivations and does everything he can to help them on their baseball journey.
From El Paso, Texas. 2x All-District first basemen at Chapin High School.
Starting pitcher at Cardinal Stritch University from 2012-2015. In 2014, he lead the staff in complete games and was 2nd on the team in ERA. Was a part of the first playoff team in school history.
Starting pitcher the Sheboygan A's from 2014-2015.
El Paso-Chapin High School Summer coach 2013.
BATS Academy coach and pitching/hitting instructor from 2015-2020. Rob was the head coach of 10u-14u teams and worked individually with players from 6 year olds to college players.
BATS Academy Co-Director of Baseball Operations 2017-2020
Head JV Baseball coach at Homestead High school from 2017-2020.
MBA Director of Operations since 2020.
Head coach of MBA Fall Ball teams 15u-18u 2020-Present
Chicago Scouts Association Fall Assistant Tournament Director 2018-2021
JP Sports All-American Team scout 2017-2020

DJ HESS

Assistant Director of Operations, Team Head Coach, Pitching Instructor

DJ HESS

Assistant Director of Operations, Team Head Coach, Pitching Instructor

DJ brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to our team from his experience at Northern Illinois University and College of Lake County. As a standout pitcher, he earned Academic All-MAC honors and made significant contributions from the bullpen, appearing in 19 games and amassing a 3-0 record with one save. Throughout his collegiate career, DJ consistently demonstrated his skill and poise on the mound, including key performances such as a scoreless inning at Iowa, a save in a 6-4 win at Cincinnati, and a season-high three strikeouts in 2.2 innings at Miami. In 2023, DJ continued to excel, making 14 appearances out of the bullpen, with highlights including a four-inning debut at Oral Roberts and a save in NIU’s win over Maine. Before joining NIU, he played two years at College of Lake County, where he posted an impressive 9-3 record with a 2.37 ERA and 63 strikeouts in 68.1 innings. DJ began his baseball journey at Germantown High School, laying the foundation for a successful playing and coaching career. As an alumni of MBA, DJ is looking forward to passing down his knowledge of the game to players who come through MBA

Ernis Arias

Team Head Coach, Fielding and Hitting Instructor

Ernis Arias

Team Head Coach, Fielding and Hitting Instructor

Ernis is a seasoned baseball professional with over 35 years of experience as both a player and coach. A native of Venezuela, he spent 13 years competing in 20U leagues before continuing his career in the United States, playing four years of college baseball at Ellsworth Community College (Iowa Falls, IA) and Olivet Nazarene University (Bourbonnais, IL). During his collegiate career, he developed strong skills in hitting and infield play, setting the foundation for his future coaching success. Ernis began coaching in 2006 as Head Coach at Iowa Falls Junior High and quickly progressed to collegiate coaching roles, including Volunteer Assistant at Ellsworth College and Student Assistant at Olivet Nazarene University, focusing on infield and hitting development. He later served as Head Coach at Chicago Hope Academy and expanded internationally as Head Scout for EHM Sport Connection and Player Advisor for M&M Sport Agency, recruiting top Venezuelan talent to U.S. programs. Since 2016, Ernis has played a central role in player development with Elite Baseball Players, serving as Field Coordinator and Hitting/Infield Coach in Venezuela. Internationally, he contributed to the Peruvian National Baseball Team as Assistant Coach (2017‑2019) and Head Coach of the 23U team (2020), leading teams in World Cup Qualifiers, Pan-American Games, and Caribbean Cup competitions. He also attended advanced coaching workshops, including Effective Velocity by Perry Husband and the Strategy and Techniques Course by Pete Wilkinson, serving as interpreter and participant. Most recently, Ernis has guided youth development as Baseball Director at Trail’s End Camp (2021‑2024) and as Head Coach for Nicolet High School’s JV2 and Junior Varsity teams (2024‑2025). With extensive experience across youth, collegiate, professional, and international baseball, Ernis brings expertise, leadership, and a commitment to developing the next generation of elite players.

CADE BERENDT

Team Head Coach, Pitching Instructor

CADE BERENDT

Team Head Coach, Pitching Instructor

Coach Cade Berendt brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to our coaching staff. A standout pitcher, he played a key role in his team's successful Division III College World Series appearance in 2024. Over his career, Coach Berendt accumulated a solid 3.76 ERA with 223 strikeouts across 203.1 innings pitched. His 2023 season was marked by a 4.02 ERA, 80 strikeouts, and a significant contribution to the team’s pitching depth. In 2022, he was named First Team All-Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, ranking ninth in NCAA Division III for appearances and excelling with a 3.79 ERA and 75 strikeouts. Previously, Coach Berendt honed his skills at McKendree University, where he played baseball for two seasons before making his mark in the WIAC. Known for his consistency and strong performance in critical moments, Coach Berendt’s experience and dedication make him an invaluable asset to our team.

RYAN LEMM

Catching and Hitting Instructor

RYAN LEMM

Catching and Hitting Instructor

Ryan brings a strong playing background, leadership, and a disciplined approach to MBA’s hitting and catching development programs. A graduate of Janesville Craig High School (WI) in 2025, Ryan was a three-year varsity contributor and a key part of two regional championship teams, helping the Cougars total 61 wins over three seasons. As a senior, Ryan delivered an outstanding offensive season, hitting .470 with two home runs and 10 doubles, earning All-State Third Team honors along with First Team All-District and All-Conference recognition. He also served as a team captain, reflecting his leadership and consistency. As a junior, he hit .330 and earned Second Team All-Conference honors. Ryan is currently a freshman at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, continuing his development at the Division I level as a catcher. In addition to his on-field success, he earned academic honors throughout high school, demonstrating a strong commitment to preparation and accountability. Ryan brings a competitive mindset, attention to detail, and a team-first mentality to coaching, making him a valuable resource for hitters and catchers looking to improve their skills and confidence.

JOEY PETTIT

Pitching Instructor

JOEY PETTIT

Pitching Instructor

Joey Pettit brings competitive collegiate pitching experience, leadership, and a strong understanding of player development to MBA’s pitching program. A right-handed pitcher, Joey competed at the NCAA level, beginning his collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater before continuing his development at Aurora University. During his time at Whitewater, he appeared in multiple games out of the bullpen, striking out 21 batters in 15.1 innings as a freshman and delivering several strong, scoreless relief outings. He continued to log meaningful innings at Aurora, gaining experience in both relief and starting roles while further refining his command and approach on the mound. A native of West Bend, Wisconsin, Joey is a graduate of Marquette University High School, where he was a two-time All-Conference selection and developed a strong foundation as a multi-sport athlete. He also earned NACC Scholar-Athlete honors, reflecting his commitment to excellence both on the field and in the classroom. Joey’s background as a collegiate pitcher allows him to bring a detailed, player-first perspective to coaching, with an emphasis on mechanics, consistency, and competitive mindset. His coaching style focuses on helping pitchers understand their craft, prepare with purpose, and develop the confidence needed to perform at the next level.

TRISTAN ELLIS

Infield and Hitting Instructor

TRISTAN ELLIS

Infield and Hitting Instructor

Tristan brings Division I playing experience and versatility to MBA’s infield and hitting development programs. A current collegiate infielder, Tristan has competed at both the Big Ten and Horizon League levels, playing primarily at shortstop and third base. During his time at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, he appeared in 35 games with 28 starts, posting a .389 on-base percentage and showing strong plate discipline and situational awareness. Tristan began his collegiate career at the University of Minnesota, gaining valuable experience against top-level Division I competition. His background across multiple programs gives him a strong understanding of the preparation and consistency required to succeed at the collegiate level. A Greendale High School graduate, Tristan was one of the most accomplished two-way players in program history. He earned All-State honors, was named District Player of the Year, and was a two-time Conference Player of the Year. A two-time team captain, he also received Team Silver Slugger and Cy Young Award recognition. Tristan played his club baseball with Hitters Baseball Academy. Tristan is passionate about developing high-IQ, well-rounded players through attention to detail, strong fundamentals, and consistent work habits, making him a valuable resource for infielders and hitters aiming to play at the next level.

MIKE MATHER

Team Head Coach

MIKE MATHER

Team Head Coach

Mike was born and raised in Rockton, Illinois and graduated from Hononegah High School in 2008. Mike grew up and participated in the Boys and Girls Little League in Loves Park, Illinois. During high school, Mike played three years on Hononegah’s varsity team while earning All Conference his senior year . After graduating from Hononegah High School, Mike attended Kankakee Community College, Harper College, and Cardinal Stritch University. While Mike was still at Cardinal Stritch University, Mike started his coaching career with a 9-10 travel team. He would eventually stay with most of those kids until they got to high school, and then started coaching travel ball at Hard Knox. Mike coached a few years in that program, before getting an opportunity to coach varsity baseball at Guilford and Hononegah High School. Mike had a short stint at Rock Valley College as the hitting coach before getting the Varsity Head Coach position at Rockford Christian. Mike spent three years with the Royal Lions, compiling a 48-18 record over the three years, with back-to-back Regional Titles and reaching the Sectional Championship game in his last season. Mike is currently the new Varsity Baseball coach at Martin Luther High School in Greendale, Wi. Mike has a wife, Tamara, and 2 kids, Lincoln and Amelia.

JACK SIEVERS

Lead Hitting Instructor

JACK SIEVERS

Lead Hitting Instructor

Jack began his college career at Iowa Central Community College where he started in left field and hit .311 in his final year. He then transferred to play Division 1 baseball at Western Illinois where he started in over 75 games for the leathernecks.

Jack is originally from Shakopee Minnesota where he was a 2x all conference, all section and all region and was a member of the Minnesota State All Star game. Jack also was a 2 year starting receiver on the Shakopee football team

Jack is currently an assistant baseball coach at University of Wisconsin Milwaukee

Aaron Goecks

Hitting Instructor and Team Head Coach

Aaron Goecks

Hitting Instructor and Team Head Coach

Aaron is a versatile and accomplished baseball player whose collegiate career demonstrated consistent growth and impact on the field. He steadily developed from a contributing freshman to a key offensive and defensive presence for his team. In 2018, Aaron moved into a starting role, appearing in 48 of 52 games, making 43 starts across the outfield and second base. That season, he drove in a career-high 30 RBIs, hit five home runs, and ranked third on the team with 10 doubles, while recording multiple multi-hit and multi-RBI games. Notable performances include a four-RBI game against Southeast Missouri and a three-hit effort at Illinois State, along with a five-game hitting streak in March. Earlier in his career, Aaron made immediate contributions as a freshman and sophomore, tallying three home runs and 14 RBIs in 2017 and showing flashes of offensive potential in limited action in 2019 and 2020. Defensively, he has showcased versatility, making starts at multiple positions, including outfield, second base, and third base, demonstrating reliability and athleticism. Aaron’s success is rooted in a strong foundation from his high school career at Brookfield, where he was a three-time All-Conference selection in baseball and a two-time All-Conference honoree in football. His combination of athleticism, versatility, and ability to deliver in key moments has made him a consistent contributor and a valuable asset on any roster.

THOMAS OTTO

Team Head Coach, Catching and Hitting Instructor

THOMAS OTTO

Team Head Coach, Catching and Hitting Instructor

Thomas Otto brings high-level experience and leadership to MBA’s hitting and catching programs. A former catcher for the Milwaukee Panthers, Thomas appeared in over 80 collegiate games from 2021–2025, contributing both offensively and behind the plate. Known for his disciplined approach at the plate and strong game IQ, he posted a career on-base percentage above .400 in his final season and logged multiple multi-RBI performances. A native of Appleton and Appleton North alum, Thomas was an All-Conference selection in high school and played his club ball with the GBR Rays. He is passionate about helping players grow through hard work, attention to detail, and consistent reps. Thomas's coaching style emphasizes both mental and mechanical development—particularly valuable for aspiring catchers and hitters aiming to play at the next level.

JACK THELEN

Catching and Hitting Instructor

JACK THELEN

Catching and Hitting Instructor

Jack comes to MBA by way of UW-Milwaukee where he was the team’s primary catcher from 2019-2023. In his Division 1 career, he started 152 games with the Panthers. In his final year, he earned Second Team All-Horizon League and Academic All-District throwing out 27 runners and hitting 6 HR’s. He finished his career with 15 HR’s and a .727 OPS. Also, he spent 3 summers in the Northwoods League with the Kenosha Kingfish and Rochester Honkers as well as a summer in the Prospect League with the Lafayette Aviators. In 2020, he earned the Rawlings “Big Stick” award for the best offensive catcher in the Northwoods League that year. A West bend West High School Alumni he helped lead the Spartans to an undefeated 33-0 season and a WIAA State Championship as a senior. A two-time Wisconsin Baseball Coaches Association All-State honoree, he repeated on the first team as a senior after batting over .400 with close to 40 runs batted in. He also was named a WBCA All-Star Classic participant, a four-time North Shore All-Conference selection, and two-time Milwaukee Journal Sentinel All-Area honoree. In addition to his playing career, he has done lessons, ran classes, and coached teams. He brings a passion for the game and a large volume of high level baseball experience. He has seen how MLB and Minor League players approach the game through his playing career and looks to bring that experience and insight to MBA.

TYLER JONES

Pitching Instructor

TYLER JONES

Pitching Instructor

Tyler is a Milwaukee native who went to high school at Marquette University High School. In 2008, Tyler led MUHS to a Wisconsin Summer Baseball State Championship.

After High School, Tyler continued his baseball career at Madison College. After his second season at Madison College, Tyler was drafted in the 2010 MLB Player draft but declined the offer. Instead, tyler accepted a scholarship to LSU. He pitched for the Tigers for a season and then was drafted again in 2011 by the Minnesota Twins. This time he accepted and began his professional career.

Tyler played a total of 8 professional seasons with the Twins, Braves, Yankees, Diamondbacks and Pirates. He was a AA All-Star with the Atlanta Braves and was placed on the big league roster for the Arizona Diamondbacks. He was a mainstay in AAA for 2+ seasons before he decided to retire in 2019.

Tyler is looking forward to passing on his knowledge to the next generation of players.

BRAD RINDFLEISCH

Lead Pitching Instructor, Hitting Instructor

BRAD RINDFLEISCH

Lead Pitching Instructor, Hitting Instructor

Rapsodo Certified Pitching Instructor
Driveline Certified Hitting Coach

Brad Rindfleisch was born and raised in the Jackson/West Bend, WI area playing high school baseball in the well-renowned West Bend West baseball program under head coach, Bill Albrecht. At West Bend West, Brad was part of 2 State Championship Runner-up teams and multiple North Shore Conference, regional, and sectional championships, graduating in 2014.

Brad continued his schooling at UW-Stout pursuing a degree in Health, Wellness, & Fitness and played 3 seasons for the Blue Devils. He would go on to have a successful career in the WIAC receiving 2 honorable mentions, being a Max Sparger Award Runner up, and found himself among the pitching historical leaderboards. Brad also had a short stint with the 2019 Northwoods League Championship Runner-up Eau Claire Express team. Brad continues to play for the Sheboygan A’s State League amateur team and has received a State League Most Valuable Pitcher Award, as well as multiple Sheboygan A’s Most Valuable Pitcher awards and All-State League/NEWBL 1st team/honorable mentions.

Brad’s coaching career started at West Bend West immediately after graduating high school where he was a bench coach for varsity for a year and then was the head coach of the JV team for 3 years. Meanwhile, at school Brad worked at the Eau Claire sports warehouse as a group/individual lesson coach for hitting and pitching. He also coached an Eau Claire Babe Ruth fall league 18u team in 2018. Brad has since returned to West Bend West and is currently the Head Baseball Coach since 2022. Brad looks forward to continue to grow and learn as a coach while helping develop quality baseball players and teaching them how to play the game the right way.

MATTHEW TURNER

Team Head Coach, Lead Fielding Instructor

MATTHEW TURNER

Team Head Coach, Lead Fielding Instructor

Matthew Turner is the current head baseball coach at Milwaukee Riverside University High School, a position he has held since 2016. Prior to being named head coach, he served in various capacities at Riverside including Varsity Assistant Coach, Freshman Head Coach, JV Assistant Coach, and Scorekeeper-Statistician. Coach Turner’s Riverside teams have twice won the City Conference Gold Division and reached the WIAA sectional finals in 2016 and 2017.

Coach Turner also serves as Athletic Director at Milwaukee Riverside where he oversees 18 varsity sports and several intramural and club athletic teams. In addition to coaching at Riverside, Coach Turner is a Field Director with Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Academy. Previous coaching stops include St. Francis High School Baseball Head Coach, Adult League Player-Manager, and head coach of a Rock League Baseball 9u team. Coach Turner still tries to play baseball in the 25+ and 35+ leagues at the Rock Sports Complex.

Coaching Opportunities

Founded in 2013, Milwaukee Baseball Academy aims to provide players from age 6 to 18 years old with an outstanding baseball and softball experience and excellent instruction in a top-notch indoor facility. Our primary goal is to enable every student to reach his/her full potential as a player and athlete.