Picking the best pitching machine for baseball is at times an unsafe undertaking in light of the fact that the machines are expensive as well as a long haul venture. Any baseball player wants to be impeccable on their hits and one of the most advantageous approaches to consummate this expertise is by putting resources into a throwing machine. Pitching machines come various sizes, runs on various mediums and toss balls diversely and at various velocities. The accompanying survey article is an exhaustive rundown of the best pitching machines worth contributing to.
Content Inside
Top 10 Best Pitching Machine Reviews for Baseball and Softball – 2020
IMAGE | PRODUCT | Throwing Velocity Range | Recommended For | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall |
Junior Hack Attack Pitching Machine for Baseball
|
Up to 70+ mph | high school, college, and professional players | Check Price |
JUGS Lite-Flite Machine for Baseball
|
Up to 85 mph | Little League teams | Check Price | |
Best Value |
Louisville Slugger Black Flame Pitching Machine
|
Up to 50 mph | Little League players | Check Price |
Best for Kids |
Franklin Sports Plastic Baseball Pitching Machine
|
Teeball, Little League | Check Price | |
Zooka: ZS740 Pitching Machine with Tall Tripod
|
10 – 70 mph | All Ages | Check Price |
#1) Junior Hack Attack Pitching Machine for Baseball
In this review article, we start from the Sports Attack Junior baseball pitching machine because it is the most relevant pitching machine nowadays. It can throw left and right-handed curves, split fingers and within 70mph speed. Good for the young league, backyard, travel teams, and high school drills. It flies ball up to 250 ft height. Fits in a car, portable and 5-year limited warranty included.
Special Features
- See the ball clearly.
- Visible release angle, motion, acceleration, live-arm sense.
- 70+mph fast speed.
- No assembly required.
- Adjustment stand.
Best suited for
Usually, baseball pitching machines are needed for junior players or specially made for young age people. This junior hack attack baseball pitching machine enables many attractions of diverse people because of it’s fabulous features. If anyone wanna be a good baseball player from childhood, they obviously need this machine. It throws balls in swings and curved. So, young kids can practice variations that help them to be a good hitter. However, not only a batter but also this machine can be used for catching practice and picking balls.
Specifications
- Dimension: 25 x 20 x 26 inches
- Weight: 75 lbs
- Shipping weight: 95.6 lbs (100 lbs)
- Review: 4.7 (out of 5)
- Domestic shipping: Only in the US.
Performance
Online reviews and coach’s applauses proved this machine as a good performer for young kids. Junior level leagues, high school leagues, inter-state leagues have been operating with this machine for long. Especially, different coaches from different teams sent all positive reviews. The most fascinating matter of this machine is, it is a movable machine. You can move the total set from one place to another.
Pros
- Elevation control system.
- Heavy duty.
- Adjustable speed, elevation, swing, flight controller.
- Lightweight.
- L screen privileges.
Cons
- Not applicable for very young kids age 6-12.
- The company provided batteries.
- Need at least 200 ft in-ground wire to supply electricity.
Recommendations
As you see this is extremely portable and have diverse privileges, expert coaches and users recommend this for training session mainly. Age from 15-35y can practice sessions or modules by categorizing. Cost affordable and easier portability made it one of the besties.
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#2) JUGS Lite-Flite Machine for Baseball
This motor operated pitching machine basically made for baseballs and poly balls. But you can play with lite-flite baseballs also. JUGS is a nice manufacturer of electrical pitching machines worldwide. This machine is one of its various provisions. Let’s check out the details of this good-looking machine.
Special features
- Lightweight pitching machine for swing.
- Throws 11-12 inch softballs, lite-flite baseballs, poly-balls.
- The speed limit 85mph at 25 feet height.
- Consistent strike facility.
- Portable battery.
- Breaking pitches.
- Good fly balls.
- Pitch selector knob.
Best suited for
Good for high school or college seniors. Coaches suggested to use it from 8y of age to above. Because it has an electric motor with high current (not harmful) that might cause little shock to young people when it is wet or in rain. Everyone loves to hit so this could be a fun factor for your kids or family. If you have a good ground to practice, you can use it easily.
Specifications
- Dimension: 12 x 14 x 27 inches.
- Weight: 35 lbs.
- Shipping weight: 39.5 lbs.
- Recommended age: 8 to adult.
- Adjustment mode: Dial.
- Battery: Rechargeable, sold separately.
- Speed: 30-50mph.
- Power: 110 V-AC.
- Motor: ⅛ HP, 1.3 Amp.
- Movement or rotation: 360o swivel (panoramic).
- Warranty: 2 years.
- Review: 4.2 (out of 5).
Performance
JUGS lite-flite machine is mostly used for hitters. It can stimulate throwing speed up to 85mph at 25-30 feet high. Good in windy conditions or stormy weather. A whole range movement-enabled neck and the throwing pan make it outstanding performed. However, the motor and the batteries included here are also good quality products. A fully charged battery can provide continuous 3-hour support without interruption. Heavy coated battery and motor keep it safe in moisture air.
Pros
- Well-manufactured.
- Easy to use.
- Portable anywhere along with.
- Versatile incredibly.
- Supports hitter demands or expectations.
- Affordable price compared to the features.
- High graded steel body.
- A convenient carrying bag that can be used in any sort of errands.
- Easily adjustable and installation manual included with the product.
Cons
- Faulty electrical wiring sometimes while shipping but replaceable.
- Good for baseballs, lite-flite baseballs, bulldog balls.
Recommendations
Good choice for hitters who want to hone their swinging skills. Fly balls and grounders can practice too by varying the panoramic angles. Coaches strongly suggest those who are 8y plus to try this, especially hitters or batters. To work on open ground, it needs a long wire to charge the batteries.
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#3) Louisville Slugger Black Flame Pitching Machine
The Black Flame is a definitive multi-sport preparing help for mentors and players. It tosses any sort of ball and is perfect for use in baseball, softball, tennis, cricket, volleyball, and soccer. Amazingly exact, The Black Flame disentangles your preparation by tossing various sorts of pitches including ground balls, fly-balls, and straight pitches, somewhere in the range of 18 and 60 miles for each hour.
Special Features
- Faster speed than Blue Flame UPM45
- 20-25 continuous pitches
- Consistent and reliable
- 50mph speed for baseballs
- Speed range 18-60mph for softballs
- No batteries or external power required
- Portable and mechanical
- Compatible with poly, plastic, hard, restricted flight, and softballs
- Need no bothering chords
- Easy to use
Best suited for
Most pitching machines are easy to use and portable. But in the mechanical aspects, black flame UPM50 has attracted a lot of reliability. From 6y to adult can easily play or practice with it, especially batters. Coaches from different high school teams notice the user-friendly attire of this machine. It is preferred for 11u little league team, girls fastpitch softball team, and junior level team. Even moms (and dads) who can’t throw are using this machine with their kid’s practice sessions. Those who practice swings and curves are allowed to use this. For more details and video clips, you can watch the Louisville slugger website or Amazon.
Specifications
- Weight: 22lbs
- Shipping Weight: 23.3lbs
- Recommended age: 6y – adult
- Review: 4.5 (out of 5)
Performance
Louisville Black Flame UPM50 is more enhanced and executable than the previous blue flame UPM45. This UPM50 throw balls with the normal speed of 50mph at the height of 25-40 feet. No electrical cords or motors are needed to run the machine. Lots of coaches already reviewed positively to this black flame pitching machine. It has great longevity and durability. No severe scratches are seen so far after long time usage.
Pros
- It is portable and easy to transport.
- No power cords give it an extraordinary aspect.
- Lightweight as the blue flame pitching machine.
- Enhanced spring system.
- More accurate than any hand-driven pitching machine.
- No batteries or external power sources needed.
Cons
- Due to mass usage, the spring system might become loose.
- Good for hand carrying but sometimes we need wheels to move more easily.
Recommendations
Coaches suggest this machine for junior-level practices. This is not a good choice for school level tournaments. But this machine is the best for junior soft baseball championship tournaments. Moreover, for regular family practices, this is a good choice for kids.
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#4) Franklin Sports Plastic Baseball Pitching Machine for Kids
Basically, this machine is a good start for young kids and toddlers. Shaped like a toy, cute and small but efficient pitcher. It can throw softballs successively. Besides, there are 4 softballs included with the machine package. It throws a ball in 10 – 20mph speed. Franklin sports pitching machine has three angle adjustment options so a kid can vary his practice hitting. The machine is battery-operated.
Special Features
- Ball feeder can hold 9 balls at a time with 4 balls pitching with a gap of 5 seconds each.
- Flash indicator while pitching.
- Requires 4 ‘C’ type batteries (not included).
- Good for starter practitioners.
- Toddlers can hit too.
Best suited for
This little thing has a good review for underage kids and newbie toddlers who can hit at least. Foamy balls could be a good choice for our pets to play with. It is better to practice in-house, indoor grounds, backyard fun moments. Another great feature is, the pitching machine can be operated by a single person.
Specifications
- Dimension: 12 x 25.8 x 18 inches.
- Weight: 4.55 lbs.
- Shipping weight: 4.6 lbs.
- Batteries: 4 x ‘C’ type (not included with the package).
- Balls: 4 balls included.
- Recommended age: 5 to 10y.
- Review: 3.8 (out of 5).
Performance
Good for playing alone by kids themselves. For timing practices, this machine is the best option for beginners. It looks pretty nice and sturdy. But there are few problems like no lights, no sounds when a ball comes towards a hitter. The small flashlight on the top of the machine cannot provide enough luminosity for eyes.
Pros
- Affordable in cost.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Good for basic and beginners.
- No AC electricity hence it is safe.
Cons
- It doesn’t work well in windy conditions.
- 4 batteries are not that good because of durability.
Recommendations
Coaches do not recommend this machine because a baseball or softball player needs more speedy balls towards them. This machine can pitch a ball with 10 – 20mph that is inefficient for a good player. Toddlers who just wanna pass their leisure moments can use it well.
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#5) Jugs BP1 Baseball/Softball Combo Pitching Machine
Now here we are describing a fantastic combo pitching machine that throws a baseball up to 70mph with a realistic delivered height. This machine is from Jugs company who basically known as a mechanical machine manufacturer. Both manual or automatic type machines they mostly produce. All of their products are the best selling products so far. However, this combo pitching machine has many positive reviews from the customers. Let’s know more about this combo pitching stuff.
Special Features
- Throws up to 70mph.
- Digital readout display.
- 360-degree swivel base.
- Great for offensive or defensive drills.
- Portable and easy to move and set up.
- Weighs just 75 lbs.
- Throws regulation size and weight baseballs and softballs.
- Runs on regular 110 VAC or portable generator.
Best suited for
This machine is electrical motor controlled hence it has a consistent frequency of throwing. Lots of coaches and trainers use this Jugs BP1 pitching machine in middle or high school kids tournament, leagues, and championships.
Specifications
- Weight: 75 lbs.
- Motor: 110 V AC.
- Shipping weight: 92 lbs.
- Age recommendations: 10y – adult.
- Review: 5 (out of 5).
Performance
Jugs always innovative. They create fabulous products for their client. Likewise their lite-flite machine, this combo pitching machine is a bit advanced in structure, functions, and assembly. It throws accurately towards a hitter with swings. The most interesting part is it has an adjustable speed controller that varies between 10-70mph.
Pros
- Consistent pitches.
- Great quality.
- Adapter included.
- Inverter allowable.
- Different types of base stands.
Cons
- Long electric cords are needed for open ground.
- The generator needed for battery insufficiency.
- Sometimes product scratch or sticky body-color is seen due to shipping.
Recommendations
As this is an electrical motor-driven machine, precaution and prevention of electricity should be the first concern. The machine is safe though but in a moisture condition, a loose or bad connection in motor might cause a severe problem. Jugs combined pitching machines are mostly used in baseball leagues, tournaments, and practices.
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#6) Zooka: ZS740 Pitching Machine with Tall Tripod
Zooka pitching machine consists of a 1/8 inch wide Steel Chassis High Impact Polycarbonate, High-quality Aluminum Alloy Barrel, and Tripod. The most fascinating cause to purchase this product is it’s easy setup criteria. It takes only a minute to assemble. Moreover, the tripod adjusted in this device can be customized if needs. Another nice thing is, it has a built-in sealed rechargeable battery that discharges too slowly. Continuos 2 hours play causes 80% battery discharge. You can use to play real baseballs, dimple balls and tennis balls with it.
Features
- Adjustable speed 10 – 70mph.
- Throws real baseballs, dimple balls, safety balls, tennis balls, and softballs.
- Digital readout of speed.
- Easier setup.
- Portable and durable battery.
- Long tripod (adjustable).
- Confident and comfortable.
- Cost affordable with accuracy.
Best suited for
Well, so far you’ve seen a lot of machines here and each of those is used for basic drill or training sessions. However, with this Zooka ZS740 pitching machine, you can practice with baseballs, tennis balls and softballs quite comfortably. Beginner hitter and fielders can practice with it for a long time. Even fly balls practice for catchers are the best with this machine. Although high school baseball or softball team don’t allow this in their tournament, it is better to use backyard or training sessions.
Specification
- Dimension: 44 x 18.5 x 11 inches.
- Weight: 38 lbs.
- Shipping weight: 42 lbs.
- Batteries: 12V sealed battery (included).
- Review: 4.7 (out of 5)
- Recommended age: 10 – adult.
Performance
Zooka pitching machine has the only drawback that is- it runs on battery. Overall the pitching machine throws balls so accurately. Tripod heights can be adjusted from 24 to 43 inches. It can pitch a ball in the range of 20 – 65 feet. Moreover, there are some extra provisions that have been seen by the trainers about speed-pitch counts. A fully charged battery can perform 800 pitches at 40mph, 700 pitches at 50mph and 500 pitches at 70mph. Baseball swings or turns cannot be possible by the Zooka ZS740 pitching machine.
Pros
- Like another assistant.
- The best way for drills.
- Great fun factor.
- Incredibly versatile.
- Minimum 2h uninterrupted playing.
Cons
- If the battery runs out, it shouldn’t try with plugged-in because of battery safety.
- Not suggested for young kids or toddlers.
Recommendations
Customer reviews and coaches strongly recommend this product for 10y to adult practices. It is a great machine for net practices. Not only baseball players but also tennis players can practice with it and they really do this nowadays. Even Serena uses this machine in her practice. So, you can use this machine for relaxing.
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#7) Deuce 95 MPH Curveball Machine with Auto Ballfeeder
This pitching machine can pitch 12 balls every 8 seconds. Deuce curveball machine has a good height so it can be the same level as a hitter. The machine can throw fastballs, curveballs, pop flies and grounders. Moreover, this is a two-wheel pitching machine with an auto-ball feeder.
Special Features
- Need no extra player for a hitter.
- Enclosed wheels.
- Variable speed control.
- 12 ball automatic feeder.
- Adjustable pitch height.
- Standard AC power.
- Hard and consistent throwings.
- Adjustable angle pitching.
Best suited for
First of all, this machine is not for kids or toddlers. You need a good area of ground. Basically, coaches like to use this machine in the large ground or gigantic indoor. The speed of the ball raises up to 95mph hence this is a long pitch machine. Good for expert players in their regular practice.
Specifications
- Weight: 93.4 lbs.
- Shipping weight: 96 lbs.
- Ball feeder: HTR6000BB.
- Power: 110 Volts AC.
- Recommended age: 8y – adult.
- 30-day money-back guarantee and 1-year warranty.
- Review: 4.3 (out of 5).
Performance
This is a covered and protected machine than others. The overall performance is good and hefty. You can run junior school drills with real baseballs and dimple balls. Furthermore, I saw some high school championship drills used this machine for speedy hits.
Pros
- Strong steel legs for better firms.
- The automatic feeder delivers balls every 8 seconds.
- The adjustable speed control adjusts the variation of speed.
- Fully enclosed wheels.
Cons
- Won’t work with softballs.
- Tedious assembly.
- Welds are bad sometimes due to massive usage.
Recommendations
Though it is recommended for 8 years kids personally I disagree to do so. Because this machine can deliver 95mph speedy balls towards a hitter. Kid’s safety is the prior issue. It is good for adult players and practitioners, undoubtedly.
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#8) Franklin Sports MLB Electronic Baseball Pitching Machine
Eye attraction or attractiveness is a major aspect for human beings especially for kids who love creativity and uniqueness. In this connection, the Franklin Electronic Pitching Machine is the best I’ve ever experienced. Spiral look ball feeder and exquisite hard plastic body make it really awesome and cute. Moreover, the machine is cost affordable having a huge fun factor. It has a flashing indicator on the top of the throwing cavity.
Special Features
- Maximum speed 20mph.
- 3-angle adjustable.
- 6 aero-strike plastic baseballs included.
- Releases each ball every 7 seconds.
- Battery operated.
- Spiral ball feeder.
- Full hard plastic body.
Best suited for
Baseball is a game of adults but it should be practiced from a young age for better hitter or pitcher. This machine helps a kid of age 6-12y to teach them how to hit balls. Henceforth, coaches, parents, trainers suggested starting with this machine. It needs no huge ground or field.
Specifications
- Dimension: 10.2 x 9.1 x 14.3 inches
- Weight: 2.3 lbs.
- Shipping weight: 2.9 lbs.
- Batteries: 4 D batteries, durable.
- Review: 3.8 (out of 5).
Performance
It is good for kids and pets, first of all. Consistent pitches and great functionality for young hitters. Overall performance is good but this pitching machine mostly uses plastic balls or dimple balls. Attractive outlook makes this machine eye-soothing for little champions.
Pros
- It requires a small space.
- Cost affordable.
- The flashing indicator indicates while pitching balls.
- Improved batting performance.
- Six balls included with a 9-balls spiral feeder.
- Flexible neck (adjustable).
Cons
- Not so smart for advanced players.
- It cannot fly balls.
Recommendations
Coaches and expert trainers do not recommend this pitching machine strongly but if you have kids under 10y of age, you can purchase this for the huge fun factors.
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#9) Jugs MVP Combo Pitching Machine for Leagues & Higher Speed Range
By utilizing JUGS Pitching Machines, youthful baseball players find a workable pace swing since throws land in for all intents and purposes a similar area each time. That makes the test of hitting a little simpler and much progressively fun. Allow your players to concentrate on hitting, handling, and base running by supplanting solid pitching with a JUGS machine. Games played with JUGS machines are simple, sheltered, quick-paced, and fun!
Special Features
- Throws up to 20-60mph.
- Digital readout display.
- Realistic release point.
- Portable and easy to use.
- Runs on regular 110V AC with portable generators.
Best suited for
The JUGS Combo Pitching Machine is commonly utilized by Pitching Machine Leagues and Youth Leagues. An extraordinary machine for baseball, this machine presently hurls to 60 mph.
Specifications
- Weight: 56 lbs.
- Shipping weight: 75 lbs.
- Power source: 110V A/C, 220V A/C (overseas).
- Review: 5 (out of 5).
- Recommended age: 8y – adult.
Performance
Jugs products are electro-mechanical so each pitching machine has electrical motor included. Likewise Jugs BP1 pitching machine, combo pitching machine has some extra privileges of motor traction system.
Pros
- Lightweight and movable anywhere.
- Digital display of speed limits.
- Adjustable stands for tall or short players.
- Easy assembly and dismantling.
Cons
- A bit costly than other Jugs products.
- Not good in moisture condition.
- Shipping delay noticed occasionally.
Recommendations
For school leagues, national tournaments, drills, and practice sessions. Baseballs, softballs, sting-free balls, lite balls are allowed to use in this product.
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#10) Jugs BP1 Best Baseball Only Pitching Machine
Likewise, Jugs other baseball pitching machines, this BP1 is designed only for different types of baseball. The most interesting feature is, it can pitch balls at 15 – 70mph speed. Moreover, this BP1 has a swivel neck that can be movable in 360 degrees. This pitching machine is a smart choice for the beginners of school and college leagues. Usually, Jugs BP1 can be used to practice fly balls, ground balls, and pop-ups. It can throw seam balls, dimpled balls, softballs, lite baseballs, and bulldog baseballs from the manufacturer.
Special Features
- Speed limits up to 20-70mph.
- 360-degree swivel movement with a flexible neck.
- Non-marking pneumatic tires.
- 110 V A/C inverter motor (generator supported).
- 5-year warranty.
Best suited for
Most baseball players want an automatic pitcher, hence this electrical BP1 pitching machine can throw a ball accurately. Jugs BP1 Baseball only pitching machine is best suited for drills, training, junior school leagues and softball tournaments. However, it has a good fun factor so you can pass time with your kids on the ground.
Specifications
- Weight: 75 lbs.
- Motor: 110V A/C.
- Shipping weight: 92 lbs.
- Tripod: fixed.
- Review: 5 (out of 5).
- International shipping: Yes.
Performance
Likewise all Jugs product, this one is easier to use because of its simplicity. As a new product, this BP1 machine is kids-friendly. Basic training, drills, hitting practice and catching practice can be smoothly done by it. Many teams from Los Angeles and Chicago have been using this for years.
Pros
- Good for tall players and kids.
- Accurate throwing.
- Fly balls and curveballs are allowable.
- The speed limits up to 70mph so kids cannot be hurt by balls.
- Well-functioning motor with furnished brushes.
- All-weather practice but rain.
- Both 110V and 220V A/C compatible.
Cons
- Interrupted electricity causes faults in motor rotation hence accuracy.
- Shipping delay occurs on and off.
Recommendations
Nevertheless, this pitching machine drew an attraction to many coaches and trainers so far. It requires little areas to practice on. Even it can be possible to work in an indoor practice session.
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Things to consider for the best pitching machines of baseball
When hoping to buy a pitching machine for baseball, there are numerous components to consider before settling on your purchasing choice. Components like value point, pitching machine style, age, and ability level, convey ability and guarantee will all assume a job in the throwing machine you see tantrum for you, your children or your group. Since there are such huge numbers of various sorts, brands, and styles of pitching machines accessible, it is critical to comprehend these distinctions before settling on your purchasing choice. A pitching machine ought to be speculation that is made once in your lifetime, and with the best possible data, this can be practiced. How about we investigate and see what you have to realize before purchasing your first pitching machine!
Evaluating Pitching Machine Value and Price Point
The most costly pitching machine isn’t really the best pitching machine for you. Albeit significant expense focuses frequently to improve quality and increasingly modern innovation, age and spending plan ought to be considered. While evaluating the estimation of a pitching machine, you should consider the general quality, life span, guarantee, and obviously, value point. Obviously, everybody needs various bores of pitching machines and various degrees of innovation, so there is certainly not an authoritative answer concerning which machines offer the best worth.
Style of Pitching Machines
Another significant idea to comprehend when buying a pitching machine is understanding the contrast among haggle style machines. We get this inquiry constantly and we need to ensure the distinctions are obvious to you. Arm style pitching machines are known for tossing predictable fastballs directly down the line and can’t toss some other variety of pitches, such as breaking balls. Nonetheless, most arm style machines accompany enormous containers that can hold several balls.
All things considered, in case you’re simply hoping to take a shot at your swing, arm style pitching machines are the ideal machine for you. Arm style pitching machines are extraordinary for batting enclosures or group practice. You can even set one up in your terrace on the off chance that you don’t anticipate moving it around frequently. In any case, the drawback of arm style pitching machines is that they are overwhelming, unportable, and generally extravagant.
Single or Multiple Wheel Pitching Machines
The greatest contrast between arm pitching machines and wheel pitching machines is that wheel pitching machines are versatile and offer a more extensive assortment of pitches. In any case, there are various kinds of wheel pitching machines. There is one wheel, 2 haggle wheel pitching machines, each offering their own degree of pitch elements for various degrees of aptitude.
One wheel pitching machines are like arms style contributing machines that they are both can just toss fastballs. With just one wheel moving the ball, you can’t get this show on the road development on the ball.
The fundamental idea of a 2 or 3 wheel pitching machine is that the pitching machine wheels turn freely of each other at various rates which makes a turn on the ball.
Portable or not?
In all actuality, most of all pitching machines available these days are compact. Be that as it may, a few machines are more compact than others. Generally, most pitching machines are either light enough to proceed onward your own, accompany transport wheels or highlight a vehicle unit that can be acquired as a frill.
Make Sure of Warranty
Another significant factor to consider while investigating your next pitching machine is the guarantee. You need to ensure your recently obtained speculation is secured.
Not all pitching machines are made similarly, nor are the guarantees that back them. All in all, anything over a 2-year guarantee for a pitching machine is adequate.
Approximate Pitching Machine Speed for Baseballs
At the point when we state that a machine has a most extreme speed of 70 mph, that is the speed at which the ball leaves the machine. At the point when individuals talk about the speed at various separations, comprehend that the machine doesn’t really pitch an alternate speed on the off chance that you are standing nearer to it or more distant away. What they are alluding to is the examination of the time that it takes the ball to travel various separations at specific paces.
For instance, in the event that you set the machine to pitch 70 mph, and you set it 30 feet from home plate, the pitch will find a workable pace in a fraction of the time (or “twice as quick as”) it would take a similar pitch to go 60 feet. In this way, one could state that it appears 140 mph at 30 feet, yet in all actuality, the ball despite everything goes at 70 mph.
While computing the near speed between 60 feet (High School or more) and 46 feet (Little League separation), you are truly contrasting the measure of time that it takes for the ball to go 46 feet instead of 60 feet.
To analyze the “ball travel time” of any two separations, isolate the more drawn out separation by the shorter separation and duplicate the outcome by the mph. For instance, 60′ separated by 46′ rises to 1.30. Increase 1.30 occasions 70 mph, and you have 91. That is the reason we state that 70 mph from 46 feet approaches 91 mph from 60 feet. Be that as it may, recall, the pitch isn’t really voyaging 91 mph. It just appears 91 on the grounds that it is being pitched to you from a shorter separation, so the ball is finding a good pace plate sooner.
Another perspective on is that the “speed” of the ball is comparative with the good ways from the pitching machine to the player and the “powerful speed” the hitter encounters is increasingly much the same as response time.
Benefits of the Best Baseball Pitching Machine
As a baseball player, there are numerous things that you must be worried about with regards to hitting. From your mechanics to your planning, everything should be with the goal for you to turn into an effective hitter. The utilization of pitching machines can be an incredible instrument for helping you create various parts of your game as a hitter. Here are a couple of points of interest in utilizing pitching machines:
1. Improve Your Mechanics
You can utilize pitching machines to assist you with building up the correct body mechanics to improve your swing. By observing different contributes to your instructional courses, you can work to build up the correct methodology with your hips. You need to ensure that you are getting your hips turned and squared toward the pitcher as you are swinging the bat through the zone. This will assist you with swinging through the ball and drive it. Utilizing pitching machines will give you the advantage of seeing the same number of pitches as you have to get your swing right, without stressing over a mentor or pitcher’s arm getting worn out.
2. Build up a Batter’s Timing
Utilizing pitching machines can enable a hitter to improve its planning. This can prove to be useful when you are getting ready for the pitcher you are going to play against in your next game. On the off chance that you realize how quick they can toss, you can set the speed of the pitching machine to that speed (or somewhat quicker) with the goal that you are increasingly agreeable when it comes time to really confronting that pitcher. This may keep you from having first at-bat nerves, which can work to demolish your planning as a hitter.
3. Pitching to Certain Locations
At the point when you are hoping to work on hitting contributes that are sure areas, it tends to be elusive a pitcher or mentor who can reliably hit a similar area again and again. With the utilization of pitching machines, you don’t need to stress over this. You can set up the machine to toss pitches precisely where you need them, regardless of whether it’s simply off the sides of the plate, or maybe higher up in the strike zone. With the benefit of having the option to work on hitting against pitchers that aren’t tossed directly down the center of the plate, you will assist with making yourself a superior all-around hitter. This is something mentors will be searching for as you go after more elevated levels of the game.
How to Build a Homemade Pitching Machine for Baseballs
Here are the designs for a little pitching machine for Little League. It dependably tosses the ball at a set rate a set way. It effectively tosses balls the good ways from the pitcher’s hill to the home plate in a somewhat level circular segment. It is intended to permit alteration in a few measurements to change the circular segment shape and speed of the toss.
Hardware and Plans
The uppish picture is a simple hand-made architect of the baseball pitching machine. You see, there are a lot of wooden bars, bolts, nuts, and others. Basically, in-house designers or woodworkers can do this easily with proper elements.
A shortlist of all items are attached here for your convenience:
- 2 x 4 pine log (8 inches each).
- Spring.
- 2 x Eyebolts (5/16 inches each).
- 2 x Ball bearing sets (with inner dia of 8mm).
- 2 x hinges (3.5 inches door hinge).
- Lots of 5/16 inches bolts, nuts, and wingnuts.
- 12 inches threaded rod, 5/16 inches of dia (throwing arm)
Furthermore, you need sandpapers, polish colors, seasoning tools additionally. Sandpapers are used to smoothen the wooden bars. Polish colors are needed to keep the thing glossy and fungus-free.
Assembly
When you have your parts removed of 2×4, you’ll have to penetrate openings for connections. With regards to the tossing arm, you should countersink the metal ball sets on the two sides of the arm, and drill a gap through the arm *larger* than the 5/16 inches pivot so that there is no contact between the wood of the arm and the hub.
More separation to run down the track implies higher speed, to a degree – on the off chance that it doesn’t make it to the discharge incline by a specific point, the toss will be feeble. Testing at the ball field uncovered an issue with the front end ascending as the pitcher tosses, prompting undue fluctuation in speed. A sandbag or other load on the front should both evacuate this fluctuation and increment power (less vitality) redirected into moving the pitcher itself.
Setting Altogether and Throwing
Numerous gaps in the discharge arm permit an alternate scope of arm movement, influencing spring strain and time until discharge. This is restricted, however, as any positioning past corresponding to the ground makes the ball move off the arm.
The incline on arm can be gone all over. The greatest impact is on the discharge edge. Various openings in the tensioner arm (the foot pedal) permit variety in spring strain.
Pitching Machine Baseball Rules
There will be at least three-pitch and a seven-pitch limit. Strikes will comprise of called strikes (1 and 2), missed swings, and foul balls. In the event that the third strike is a foul ball he/she will keep on accepting pitches until he/she hits the ball reasonable or swings also, misses. A strikeout can possibly happen if the player swings at the third strike or neglects to hit the tenth pitch. Some basic rules of the pitching machine baseballs are-
- Safety first.
- Player development.
- Sportsmanship like uniforms, dress codes, dress safety.
- Equipment- a bat (<27 inches in length), batting helmet, cleats or shoes, pitching machine, balls.
- Participation in batting and fielding is a must.
- Both teams keep a book to record the scores.
- 6 innings or ! hour and 30 minutes should be the length of the game.
- Both team head coaches or representatives will umpire the game together.
- The pre-game field should be inspected by coaches and ensure the cleanliness of hazards.
- After the game finishes, both coaches have to ensure the neat and clean issues of the field. Trash on the ground has to be removed as well as the base need proper security for further games.
- A pre-game meeting between both coaches is necessary.
Offensive Team
- No on-deck circle
- Pitches
- No walks
- Bunting is prohibited
- Running the bases
- Runners must slide
- Runners must avoid a defensive player
Defensive Team
- Pitching machine needed
- Players on the field
- Coaches
- Time out
- Play balls
- Catchers
However, any grown-up shot out must leave the playing zone right away. A shot out player must stay on the seat. No player, mentor, or scorekeeper is allowed to consider a rival player a name while he is batting, running, or handling. No smoking or drinking of mixed refreshments.
Baseball Pitching Machine Features to Concern
Quality has no limits for anything. Likewise, any mechanical creations or sports machinery also need good quality output. For the best baseball pitching machine, you have to follow some key factors or features to concern about it. The most common features are power source and speed. Let’s have a look at the features you need to know about.
Power source
Pitching machines can be manual (hand driven) or automatic (motor driven). Some machines are direct power consuming, some are battery operated. If you have a large ground and enough power source, then it is not a problem to select powerful pitching machines. If you have an indoor ground, you can use battery-operated pitching machines because these batteries are rechargeable most of the time. Furthermore, for small ground, it is good to use hand-operated pitching machines.
Portability
Yes, this is a good issue to be concerned about. However, all pitching machines are portable luckily. But some of those need to move by hand, that is you have to lift the machine and transport from one place to another. Sometimes it is odd to move anything heavier, so keep in your head about portability. We suggest selecting those machines that have wheels.
Control
Control means whether the machine needs another person or it works on its own. Hand driven machines need another person (bowler/pitcher) to place the ball successively. Basic trainers use hand-driven machines for kids or practice sessions. Regular players or adults need an automated machine that throws a ball to a hitter every few seconds, repeatedly. Some pitching machine has ball feeder that pitches the ball in a certain duration (highest 8 seconds).
Pitch Speed
High-speed baseballs should not be thrown to kids, first concern. Usually, pitching speed varies from 40mph to 100mph. For kids and young players from 6y – 10y, it is good to pick 40-60mph speed machines. For high school and girls softball practice, it is good to use 50-70mph baseball pitching machines.
Ball Compatibility
Baseballs are of three types- soft, hard and lite. Lite baseballs are mostly sting-free.
A soft baseball is lighter than hard baseballs or deuce balls. It depends on the practice session or age.
For a beginner, it is good to start with soft baseballs. So it is up to you to select the type of machines. Besides, all machines are compatible to throw soft baseballs.
Pitch Types
Machines can pitch randomly and with versatile categories. For example, a bowler or pitcher can pitch deliveries into some well-known provisions like curveballs, swings, curly balls, fly balls, elevated balls, etc. Hence, all machines are designed into these categories also. Jugs and Franklin companies manufacture pitching machines that can pitch balls in a curve, angle, elevation, fly, and swing.
Adjustability
The adjustability of a pitching machine basically depends on the height, angle, elevation, distance, and speed. So far you know about speed and angle. Some machines are designed with a height adjustability feature. You can adjust the height of the machine. Likewise, you can adjust elevation that causes pitch distance. Maximum machines have manuals and charts to follow the instructions.
Pitch Frequency
Frequency means throwing duration. Some machines can throw balls every 7 seconds, some throws every 8 seconds. It is up to you to choose which one you need. For expert players, we recommend taking 5 or 6 seconds duration machines. For kids, it is better to pick 8 seconds of frequency machines.
Bottom Line
In this review section, we tried to draw a comparative figure among 10 best pitching machines for baseball. Moreover, we made some provisional and relevant topics regarding baseball & softball such as benefits, speed, construction, and rules. Notwithstanding there are over 50 pitching machines worldwide, but we selected the best 10 among those all. Hope this review will help you a lot to pick the best pitching machine for baseball further.
My name is David Farnum and I’ve been a Little League Coach in my community for the past 7 years. With 2 boys playing baseball and 1 girl playing softball, most weekends I can be found near a baseball diamond.