about us

Welcome to Next Play Baseball, where we recognize the pivotal role that quality instruction plays in shaping youth baseball.

In an era where baseball development often relies on generic online resources or one-size-fits-all 1-on-1 lessons, we stand out by emphasizing a personalized approach. We understand that elite players come in various shapes and sizes, and addressing the specific needs of each player is imperative to be a key contributor on any team.

A young boy at a baseball field preparing to hit a baseball with a bat, with two other boys and an adult in the background during sunset.

While traditional practices in little league and travel ball are valuable, the limited time available often falls short in honing individual skill sets. This is why we believe in the importance of individual training for every baseball player. At Next Play Baseball, we bridge this gap by offering the same effective drills found in 1-on-1 lessons, available 24/7.

In identifying and addressing individual needs, we provide an opportunity to promote development that strengthens a player’s unique skill set. Whether it’s position-specific defensive courses, hitting courses covering every aspect of hitting, pitching courses emphasizing effective routines and arm care, or baserunning courses providing insight into effective strategies that make an impact on the bases, Next Play Baseball is your source for proper youth development.

While there are skilled 1-on-1 instructors in the baseball community, parents and coaches may not always be present during these lessons, limiting their understanding of the player’s progress and areas to consistently address. Next Play Baseball offers an opportunity for parents or coaches to provide a valuable developmental resource for their players. We aim to diminish the reliance on 1-on-1 lessons, recognizing that consistent action and access to proper resources are crucial for development. 

A baseball catcher wearing a helmet and gear sitting on the ground, watching a game in a park with trees in the background.

meet your coaches

At Next Play, our coaches are here to guide players of all ages and skill levels to reach their goals. We’re proud to share that each coach on our team has excelled in the game, playing at the Division 1 collegiate level, and bringing years of professional playing experience to our instructional videos. While we’ve had success in the sport, we want to express our gratitude to the parents and coaches who supported us when we were young players dreaming of being our best in the game. Now, we have come together to share the same drills that were instrumental in our development, along with new drills acquired throughout our journeys.  

Each coach featured in our videos played the specific position they are teaching. This ensures a level of precise expertise in the execution of developmental techniques. Join us as we bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for the game to help every player unlock their full potential and have fun in the process.  

Young man wearing a baseball cap with a shark logo, smiling against a blue background.

trevin esquerra

Hometown: San Diego, California

  1. Early Baseball: Began playing at Mission Trails Little League

  2. High School: Varsity baseball player at Patrick Henry High School

  3. College Career:

    • Earned a scholarship to Loyola Marymount University (LMU)

    • Played first base and outfield

    • Named LMU Male Athlete of the Year (2019)

    • Selected to the Pre-Season All-American List (2020)

  4. Professional Career:

    • Signed with the Detroit Tigers organization in the 2020 MLB Draft

    • Played several professional seasons before transitioning to coaching

  5. Coaching Career:

    • Currently serves as a Hitting Coach at the Junior College level

    • Extensive experience coaching collegiate and youth travel ball players

  6. Mission: Dedicated to making player development accessible for athletes of all ages and skill levels

A young man in a green baseball uniform with yellow trim, wearing a green cap with yellow and white logo, smiling in a studio portrait.

cooper uhl

Hometown: Mission Viejo, California

  1. Early Baseball: Began playing at North Mission Viejo Little League

  2. High School:

    • Attended Trabuco Hills High School

    • Played varsity baseball and football

  3. College Career:

    • Earned a scholarship to Loyola Marymount University (LMU)

    • Served as the starting catcher all four years

    • Named to the All-Freshman Team in his first year

    • Awarded West Coast Conference Defensive Player of the Year as a sophomore

  4. Professional Career:

    • Signed with the Oakland Athletics in the 2020 MLB Draft

    • Played three full professional seasons, advancing to the AAA level

Man with a beard wearing a baseball cap and jacket with Baylor University logos, smiling at an indoor event.

Tyler rios

Hometown: Costa Mesa, California

  1. Early Baseball: Began playing at Costa Mesa National Little League

  2. High School:

    • Attended Estancia High School

    • Dual-sport varsity athlete in baseball and football

    • Named Daily Pilot Athlete of the Year

  3. Amateur Career:

    • Played under Coach John Altobelli in 2015

    • Contributed to a State Championship title that season

  4. College Career:

    • Competed at Bethesda University, where he enjoyed a successful collegiate run

  5. Coaching Career:

    • Currently serves as the Infield Coach at Irvine Valley College

    • Brings deep experience, passion, and a development-first approach to coaching

  6. Mission: Dedicated to giving back to the game by helping young athletes grow on and off the field through hard work, strong fundamentals, and love for baseball