Jefferson City — On Tuesday, the St. Louis Cardinals Kids Clinic made its way to the Capital City for a sold-out camp teaching local kids the basics of baseball.

Redbird’s legend David Eckstein made the trip to give some hitting tips, and Taos, Missouri, native Tom Henke got on the field as well.

“Seeing the future of the game is what really makes me happy, makes me smile because that’s our game. Our game is a generational game where you pass it down from your parents to your grandparents and now to the kids and stuff like that.”, said Eckstein.

JC Parks hosted the Cardinals Kids Clinic at 63 Diamonds Sports Complex in Jefferson City. They were satisfied with the turnout for the camp.

“You know we had 150 kids registered in 48 hours, so it sold out quickly and there’s a record breaker for the Cardinals. They couldn’t really believe it so we’re glad that all the kids are out here and having fun and learn some baseball.”, said Steve Schellman, JC Parks’ Senior Program Manager for Youth Athletics.

“We usually have some sellouts every year, but usually never at that fast of a club. So, we’re thrilled to be back and look forward to being here again in the future. “, said Clinic Manager, Gabe Kiley.

The kids got the chance to learn fielding skills, and base running skills, and receive hitting tips.

“Everybody should come out of here learning two or three, at least two or three new things about the game of baseball, right? It might be a little thing about how you throw a baseball, or how you feel the ball, or something in your batting stance. They’re going to come away and be a little bit better at what they do.”, said Kiley.

2006 World Series MVP David Eckstein says he remembers a time when and opportunity like this was given to him.

“It brings you back to when you were a little kid. And I know a very special time when I was a little kid that made a huge impact in my career was Tim Raines came out to my local little league and did an event. And that inspired me to be a major leaguer. So anytime I have a chance to come back out, I say yes.”, Eckstein recalled.

Kiley says the Cardinals Kids Clinic would love to return to Jefferson City after the reception they received today