Our story
Discover the CUB Legacy.
At Central Union Baseball and Softball (CUBS), we believe that the love of the game extends far beyond the baseball and softball diamond. Our mission is to provide young athletes with the opportunity to develop their skills while learning the importance of teamwork, demonstrating good sportsmanship, and building lifelong friendships. Each practice and game is a platform for growth, where players learn valuable life lessons in dedication, resilience, and decision-making as they push past their limits to discover their full potential.
As a proud member of the United States Amateur Baseball League (USABL), we field competitive traveling teams that showcase the region’s top talent. Through our journey across various tournaments, we foster an environment that emphasizes not just winning but building athletes of character.
CUBS is more than a team—it’s a family. We embrace diversity and foster a community where players, coaches, and parents come together with a shared passion for the game. Our experienced coaches focus on developing a team mindset while encouraging individual growth. Parents play an integral role in supporting their athletes from the sidelines and promoting a positive mindset, contributing to the success of the entire organization.
Beyond the Bat:
The CUB Code
Player Development
Nurturing individual skills to foster peak performance on the field.
Teamwork
Respect
Treating every player, coach, and opponent with the utmost consideration and esteem.
Sportsmanship
Championing fair play, humility in victory, and grace in defeat.
Passion
Cultivating a deep love for the game and an unwavering drive to excel.
Community
Fostering a tight-knit family of players, coaches, and supporters.
Dedication
Committing wholeheartedly to the game, our teammates, and the CUBS legacy.
Excellence
Striving for the highest standards in every drill, practice, and game.
CUBS' Home Turf: Memorial Field Complex
Since 1956, the Memorial Field Complex has been the cornerstone of Cranford baseball excellence. Serving as a foundational platform for local teams from CBSL, many have ascended to clinch county, sectional, and state championships at the high school tier. The complex boasts four illuminated fields, a batting cage, a convenient snack stand, and independent restrooms, all nestled beside the varsity field. Also Hillside elementary, and Orange Ave. school serve us as training fields.
MEMORIAL FIELD COMPLEX
401 Centennial Avenue, Cranford, NJ
Meet the Minds Behind the Mitts
Coach MICHAEL Smith
Coach Michael Smith is the owner and creator of Central Union Baseball. His extensive background in athletics speaks to his passion and dedication to the game. As a tri-sport varsity athlete in baseball, basketball, and soccer from 2013 to 2016, he developed a deep understanding of competition and teamwork. He continued his athletic journey playing college basketball at Union County College from 2017 to 2018. He also is the assistant varsity coach at Cranford high school for 2025 season.
Matt has been deeply involved in coaching, serving as the middle baseball coach in Cranford from 2018 to 2022 and as the freshman baseball coach in 2023 and 2024. His coaching philosophy focuses on fostering both individual development and team unity, helping players achieve their potential on and off the field.
From Bases to Basics: CUB FAQs
Age groups: 8 - 16. Our teams range from various youth divisions. Check our programs page for specific age group offerings.
Start by filling out our application form. Selected players will be invited for tryouts.
Our teams typically practice multiple times a week with regular matches during the season. Commitment to both practices and games is essential.
- 3 hours a week 2 practices,
- 6 -7 hours per weekend,
- games every weekend for 7 weeks.
Yes, there are membership and season fees, which cover training, league registration, and uniforms.
Our primary training and game location is the historic Memorial Field Complex, Hillside Ave. School and Orange Ave. School.
Our coaches undergo a rigorous selection process, including background checks, to ensure both expertise in the game and commitment to our values.
The best way for parents and guardians to get involved is to attend games and be supportive.
As competitive traveling teams, expect regional and occasionally interstate matches. We try to manage the schedule to minimize disruption to families.
Player safety is paramount. All our coaches are trained in first-aid, and we adhere to strict guidelines both on and off the field.
Follow us on our social media channels like Instagram for all the laterst updates. Follow us on Instagram here
