Abstract: A batting tee and/or hitting training device is provided that includes a platform, a support extending upwardly from the platform and a holder disposed on the support opposite the platform for holding the ball to be hit. The holder includes a lower tubular member and an upper ball-retaining portion that are integrally formed with one another.

Abstract: A base or similar structure utilized in playing a sport is provided including a top base structure including a number of bores formed therein and an insert including an upper surface having a number of studs thereon engageable with the bores, and a lower surface including a number of posts thereon. The posts extend outwardly from the insert to securely engage the ground against horizontal or lateral forces exerted on the base.

Abstract: A batting tee and/or hitting training device is provided that includes a platform, a support extending upwardly from the platform and a holder disposed on the support opposite the platform for holding the ball to be hit. The support additionally includes a cross-beam disposed on the support adjacent the holder. The cross-beam can be positioned at an angle with regard to the support, such that the cross-beam has an upward slope from one end to the other. This slope enables the batting tee to provide the individual with a guide for an upward swing path of the bat towards the ball disposed on the holder.

Abstract: A leg guard for a baseball catcher has a thigh portion of a rigid shell with a pad affixed thereto that is connected by a pair of straps to a knee portion of a rigid shell with a pad affixed thereto. The same pair of straps connect to a shin portion, which also has a rigid shell and a pad affixed thereto. The pad of the shin portion has an extension at an upper end that is attached thereto by a narrow neck and that extends to behind the knee portion. The extension of the shin pad is cup shaped to cup the knee of the wearer and thereby provide a second layer of padding at the knee. The knee portion floats relatively to the thigh and shin portions during bending of the leg, while still keeping all parts of the knee area covered by a rigid shell.