Get to know us
Joe Zeller, a former baseball player from Orange County, started his baseball journey in high school at Capistrano Valley. He then went on to play at Loyola Marymount University as a two-way player before transferring to The Master's University. At The Master's University, he made All-Conference as a pitcher and hitter in different years and even made the all-decade team for college. After college, Zeller was drafted by the Chicago Cubs and played up to AA with them, playing professionally for five years. Zeller coached with the Banditos in Texas, one of the largest youth baseball programs in the country, and has been coaching in the South Bay for the past six years building Zeller Baseball to what it is today.
Our mission
At Zeller Baseball Academy, our mission is to cultivate the full potential of young athletes, both on and off the baseball field. We aim to provide comprehensive training programs for aspiring players who dream of excelling in high school, college, and beyond. Our focus extends beyond the physical aspects of the game; we also place significant emphasis on character development and discipline. We believe that the lessons learned on the diamond - teamwork, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence - are invaluable tools for success in life. Our commitment is to guide our athletes in their journey, inspiring them to become not only exceptional baseball players, but also responsible, confident, and compassionate individuals.
Our vision
Our vision at Zeller Baseball Academy is to be recognized as a leading institution in youth baseball development, where every young athlete is empowered to reach their fullest potential. We strive to create an environment that nurtures growth, fosters resilience, and instills a lifelong love of the game. Our dream is to see our players excel not just on the field, but in all areas of life, leveraging the lessons and values they've gained from baseball. We envision a future where our athletes are known not only for their athletic achievements, but also for their character, integrity, and positive impact on their communities.
Our Coaches
Our strength lies in our coaches. We look to hire good people that can be role models to kids. We strive to not only instill discipline, work ethic, accountability and being a good person through words, but even more so through action. Kids model behavior more than anything else.
Joe Zeller
Head Coach/Owner
Former professional pitcher in the Cubs organization. Played division 1 college baseball at LMU as a two way player. Made all conference one year as a middle infielder and another year as a pitcher.
Clay Sanders
Coach
Clay Sanders played at the powerhouse Los Alamitos High School program. One of a few players in history to make JV as a freshman. Played at UCSB. Valedictorian and spoke at his graduation.
T.J. Sebenick
Coach
TJ played baseball at Peninsula high school. He is currently playing college baseball at Occidental college. He had a 4.6 GPA in high school and is an Eagle Scout. Fluent in Japanese.