Joe DiLeo, owner and instructor at Hot Corner Athletics, brings a wealth of experience and an infectious passion for baseball and softball to his skill development facility in Western New York. With a commitment to fostering growth, confidence, and character, Joe inspires athletes to reach their full potential both on and off the field.
From Western New York, Joe’s baseball journey began at St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute, where he was a two-year varsity athlete. As a pitcher, he earned an All-WNY Honorable Mention with a 2.19 ERA, striking out 37 batters over 32 innings. Despite being cut as a walk-on at Canisius College, Joe’s determination led him to Erie Community College (ECC), where he excelled as a reliever, pitching 33 innings with 38 strikeouts over two years. His perseverance earned him a scholarship to Central Methodist University (NAIA) in Missouri, where he recorded 16 innings and 19 strikeouts. Returning home to complete his degree at SUNY Fredonia, Joe added 28 innings and 30 strikeouts, finishing his college career with a total of 77 innings pitched and 87 strikeouts.
Joe’s competitive spirit extended to summer ball, where he played in the NYCBL for the Olean Oilers and in the AAABA league with teams like Ken-HY Auto and the historic Royal Printing in Johnstown. In 2018, he signed with the Hollywood Stars in the CANAM League, playing independent professional ball. Joe competed in MUNY baseball for 16 years (2009–2025) with teams such as St. Mary’s, Leibs, JAMCO (as owner and manager), and the Buffalo Diesel. As a cornerstone of the Diesel’s pitching staff, Joe helped lead the team—comprised of former college teammates and rivals—to four National Amateur Baseball Federation (NABF) championships, tying a record for the most national titles by a franchise in the league’s over 100-year history. The camaraderie and shared passion for the game continue to drive Joe’s love for baseball. Joe is currently the pitching coach for his alma mater St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute.
Joe’s coaching career is where his true calling shines. After serving as the pitching coach at Erie Community College, he spent five years as the Director of Baseball Operations at Aces Baseball, coaching athletes of all ages. Every teammate, coach, and player Joe has worked with has shaped his approach to coaching, which is rooted in love, compassion, discipline, and character development. At Hot Corner Athletics, Joe considers it a privilege to work with young athletes, never taking the opportunity to guide someone else’s child lightly. His deepest passion lies in building players’ confidence, self-respect, and love for the game.
Joe and his dedicated staff at Hot Corner Athletics create an environment where athletes grow not only as players but as individuals. Whether an athlete is just starting out or aiming for the next level, Joe’s commitment to their development is unwavering. Come train with Joe DiLeo and the Hot Corner Athletics team, where skills are honed, character is built, and a lifelong passion for baseball and softball is ignited. Join us and be part of something truly special.
