HRD Bat Co.
HRD Bat Co is an out-of-the-park small business producing the best quality bats for people everywhere with passion, perseverance and quality at the forefront.
Located in Caledonia lies HRD Bat Co, where innovation meets tradition to produce some of the finest baseball bats known to the sport. At the head of it all is Trevor Oakes, a lifelong baseball enthusiast raised in the town of Tillsonburg, Ontario.
Oakes’ journey into bat-making began with a personal frustration – after breaking two bats during gameplay, he resolved to take matters into his own hands. Armed with sheer determination, he embarked on a journey that would transform his passion into a thriving business. What started as a solitary endeavor, painstakingly setting up lathes over two weeks, has blossomed, now using some of the best machinery to churn out top-quality pro-approved bats in a matter of minutes. Their new automated lathes can produce bats in three minutes, whereas it used to take twelve to fifteen minutes by hand. They used to produce 10 a day start to finish, but now they can make orders of 150 in a day. Using the best wood and a clear coat system these bats are like none other.
The evolution of HRD Bat Co was assisted by Oakes’ love for the craft, initially creating bats as a pastime. However, spurred by increasing demand for his creations, Oakes recognized the potential for a full-fledged enterprise. Today, HRD Bat Co stands proudly as a supplier for the MLB, IBL and all baseball lovers alike, catering to clientele worldwide.
Central to HRD’s rise is the partnership between Oakes and Nick Shailes, a decorated fast-pitch champion from Australia. Shailes is a six-time World Champion, a ten-time all world team selection, and has been playing with the Australian men’s National team for fourteen-plus years. Shailes is also the owner of Lumberjack Sports. Their combined knowledge of baseball and wood science (for baseball) has been key to their mission. Their unwavering commitment to quality is evident in every bat produced, boasting unparalleled durability and performance. They offer many different model types to help fit the player’s exact needs.
While HRD Bat Co’s commitment to crafting exceptional products remains paramount, its ethos extends far beyond mere manufacturing. Here, every customer, from seasoned MLB veterans to aspiring young ballplayers, receives equal attention and care, reflecting HRD’s dedication to inclusivity and nurturing the dreams of tomorrow’s baseball stars. To name a few, HRD has worked with big names like Chicago Cubs players Patrick Wisdom, Seiya Suzuki, Matt Mervis, and Owen Cassie, as well as young Blue Jays prospects. Even some baseball Hall of Famers have their hands on HRD bats.
Navigating the early hurdles of establishing brand recognition, HRD Bat Co found solace in the age-old adage of ‘word-of-mouth’. Settling within the tight-knit community of Haldimand County, the company flourished, buoyed by the support of locals and bolstered by a commitment to giving back. HRD’s involvement with the Caledonia Minor Baseball League and desire to work with businesses in Six Nations underscores HRD’s dedication to community engagement, going beyond just buying and selling to make a real impact in the area. Sponsorships and donations are something they take pride in.
In an age where social media reigns supreme, HRD Bat Co’s products speak volumes, with countless testimonials showcasing their capability on the field. Yet, for Oakes, success is more than just recognition, it’s about the hustle, the relentless pursuit of excellence, and above all, the relationships forged along the way. With an unwavering focus on quality and an indomitable spirit, HRD Bat Co shows no signs of slowing down, determined to etch its name as the preeminent bat company in the industry
Learn more about starting or moving your business to Haldimand County. Contact us at 905-318-5932 ext. 6331 or email: opportunity@haldimandcounty.on.ca