Pitching Machine Basics

Yesterday we posted a review of BATA pitching machines... and today it dawned on us that some of our readers actually need a basic primer course on baseball pitching machines --- period!


So today, we're going to do a short-course overview of pitching machine basics.  This will probably be most helpful to you parents who are looking at buying your first machine for your up-and-coming baseball star.


A baseball pitching machine (or a softball pitching machine) is a great tool to help hitters improve their hitting.  When you pick the right machine and train with it properly, there are many benefits in owning a baseball pitching machine.


When buying a baseball pitching machine, there are five things to consider.

1. Pitch speed -You want to have a pitching machine with the proper pitching speed for you.
2. Number of wheels -You want the right amount of wheels for your pitching machine.
3. Transportability - Pick a pitching machine which is easy to transport.
4. Parts and accessories - Generators,auto ball feeders,dimpled balls and covers are important to your pitching machine.
5. Warranty - Make sure you are properly covered with your investment.

Pitching machines come in different styles...

Both arm action pitching machines and a circular wheel machines are very popular, particularly with more advanced players.  But -- a starter baseball pitching machine is ideal for young players and leagues where pitching machines are used in actual games (pitches are normally 30 mph in these games).

The curveball machines actually put spin the ball as it leaves the chute.  There are some pretty versatile curveball machines on the market that can put different spins on the ball. The 2 pitch sidewinder pitching machine can throw straight fastball and 3/4 curve, straight fastball and 3/4 slider, tailing fastball and sidearm curve, and tailing fastball sidearm slider. The 2pitch3 baseball pitching machine can throw a 95 mph and a 75 mph curveball -- in one set up. There is also the twin pitch pitching machine which gives you 2 pitches in one set up.

Long story short, there's a baseball pitching machine available for all ballplayers at all levels.

Parts and accessories...


Pitching machine parts and accessories are important to your baseball pitching machine. Auto ball feeders feed balls through the machine at different intervals, giving you time between each swing.  A power generator can come in handy as an alternative power source for running your single wheel pitching machine, or automatic ball feeder units in locations where there are no electric outlets.  The are covers to protect your machine from the elements.  Dimpled balls will dramatically extend the life of your baseball pitching machine.  Some machines have a pitch selector which allows you to feed fastballs and curveballs without the batter knowing which pitch is coming.

Wrapping it up...

Overall, there's a lot of options with both machines and accessories.  The key is to purchase something that fits the player's needs.  Pitching machines are useful particularly because it allows batters to practice on their own.  And the truth is, getting a kid a good  machine --- and then regularly using it --- can set there skill level far above their peers who don't have that kind of training tool.

And, besides improving your game, you can share your pitching machine with teammates and have a lot of fun.  Why not get one and start throwing your own batting parties?

At Baseball Training Emporium, we carry the following:

Cimarron Baseball Pitching Machines
Bata Baseball Pitching Machines
ATEC Baseball Pitching Machines
Jugs Pitching Machines
Ryan Express Pitching Machine

See you next time!

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For baseball training aids, a quality backyard batting cage, or a great selection of baseball pitching machines,
shop Baseball Training Emporium!