Baseball pitching machines offer a great way to practice perfecting your pitching technique without plenty of team members to help you out. Using a baseball pitching machine means you can practice either solo or with just one helper. They’re perfect for players of any age!
We reviewed dozens of baseball pitching machines to identify the best of the best. We considered features including the maximum pitch speed, how each machine is powered, and whether or not they can be used for both baseball and softball, or just one. We also took the cost of each machine into account, and whether they came with a warranty or not.
As our Top Pick, we selected the Jugs BP1 Combo Pitching Machine. This beast can do it all – from baseball to softball pitches using a huge range of different ball types and speeds. What’s more, this versatile machine throws from a realistic delivery height, is portable, and can be run using three different power sources.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Baseball Pitching Machines
Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
---|---|---|
Best Baseball Pitching Machine Overall | Jugs BP1 Combo Pitching Machine | 5.0 |
Best Softball Pitching Machine | Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine | 4.8 |
Best Budget Baseball Pitching Machine | HeaterSports Power Alley Lite Baseball Pitching Machine | 4.3 |
Best Curveball Pitching Machine | Heater Sports Deuce Curveball Pitching Machine | 4.4 |
Best Kids Baseball Pitching Machine | Franklin Sports Baseball Pitching Machine | 3.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at time of publication and can change
Best Baseball Pitching Machine Overall: Jugs BP1 Combo Pitching Machine
As our Top Pick, the Jugs BP1 Combo Pitching Machine was an easy choice. The digital readout display on this machine can be set to any pitch speed from 15 – 70 MPH, meaning you can tailor the pitch exactly to the needs of your players. You can choose to power this using 110-volt AC, or compatible generators and battery packs.
This machine can pitch both baseballs and softballs, as well as a huge range of other ball types. It comes complete with chutes and legs for both types of pitching. Reviewers on Amazon love the consistency of pitch combined with the power of these machines – both of which make it a real all-rounder.
Jugs BP1 Combo Pitching Machine Key Features:
- 5-year guarantee
- Swivel base
- Portable and lightweight
Best Softball Pitching Machine: Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine
We recommend the Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine by Sports Attack as the best softball pitching machine. This machine can pitch a wide range of different styles. These include drops, risers, fastballs, plus both left- and right-handed screwballs. The maximum speed is up to 60 MPH.
The throwing head can pivot in any direction, and you can switch between pitches using the three control dials. This is a great machine for any level of player from the backyard all the way up to professionals. It’s designed to be compact and portable, so won’t take up much space in the trunk of your car.
Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine Key Features:
- 5 year warranty
- Suitable for regulation and pitching machine balls
- Maximum speed 60 MPH
Best Budget Baseball Pitching Machine: Heater Sports Power Alley Lite Baseball Pitching Machine
Our choice of the best budget baseball pitching machine is the Heater Sports Power Alley Lite Baseball Pitching Machine. Coming in at under $150 this machine offers great value for money combined with plenty of features. This machine can pitch fastballs, grounders, and pop-flys, with a maximum speed of 60 MPH.
The height of the pitch can be adjusted, and the powerful A/C motor plus wheels are fully enclosed for safety. This machine can pitch soft Lite baseballs as well as Lite balls. Reviewers love the combination of price point and efficiency, but be sure to only use it with practice balls rather than real baseballs.
Heater Sports Power Alley Lite Baseball Machine Key Features:
- Maximum speed 60 MPH
- Easily portable
- Fully enclosed wheel
Best Curveball Pitching Machine: Heater Sports Deuce Curveball Pitching Machine
As the best curveball pitching machine, we recommend the Heater Sports Deuce Curveball Pitching Machine. By pivoting the machine head you can choose between curveballs, fastballs, pop-flys, and grounders. The wheels on this machine are fully covered to ensure maximum safety.
The speed of pitch can be varied from 15 MPH all the way up to an impressive 95 MPH! This also comes with an auto feeder that can hold 12 balls and will pitch one every 8 seconds. By removing the auto feeder it’s also easy to use this machine manually.
Heater Sports Deuce Curveball Pitching Machine Key Features:
- Suitable for use with real baseballs and practice balls
- 1 year warranty
- Covered wheels for safety
Best Kids Baseball Pitching Machine: Franklin Sports Baseball Pitching Machine
As the best baseball pitching machine for kids, we recommend the Franklin Sports Baseball Pitching Machine. Due to the fact that it’s battery-powered, this machine is inexpensive so is a great machine to teach younger players how to practice their pitching. By adjusting the launch angle, it can also be used for practicing fielding.
The ball feeder can hold 9 balls and once loaded, the machine can pitch every 7 seconds. This Franklin Sports machine can pitch 4 different styles – grounders, pop-flys, fast pitch, and soft toss.
Franklin Sports Baseball Pitching Machine Key Features:
- Includes 6 plastic baseballs
- Maximum speed 20 MPH
- Ground stakes included
Who Should Buy a Baseball Pitching Machine
Baseball pitching machines are an excellent way to improve multiple aspects of your baseball game. They allow you to practice hitting balls at any time, even when you don’t have someone to pitch for you. Using a pitching machine will help improve your hand-eye coordination and depth of field perception, which will, in turn, keep your swings effective and accurate. So if you’ve got your brand new baseball bat all ready to go and no-one to pitch for you, you definitely need a pitching machine!
Some baseball machines are also suitable for pitching softballs, so if you’re a multi-sport family then it’s definitely worth selecting a versatile machine that can be used by everyone. Pitching machines are definitely a useful tool for absolutely any baseball player – from little league all the way up to professionals.
Important Features to Consider
Baseball pitching machines should do several things well if they’re going to be enjoyable and useful to use. Here’s what to consider when selecting the best one for your needs:
- Baseball, softball, or combo. You might want a machine that only focuses specifically on baseball or softball, but these days it’s also possible to buy combo machines that can do both.
- Speed. The maximum speed on pitching machines varies, so make a note of the top speed offered by the models you’re interested in. The fastest speed offered by the machines included in our review is 100 MPH, but a top speed of 60 MPH is more common. This speed is measured when the machine is set up at a standard distance.
- Portability. Sometimes you might want to use your pitching machine in different places in which case portability will be important. Some machines come with wheels and are powered by batteries, others need to be plugged in and will be heavier. Manual pitching machines will be lighter and easier to move around than electric versions.
- Auto feeder. If you’re practicing alone, an auto feeder tube releases balls at set times for the machine to pitch to you automatically. IF your machine doesn’t have an auto feeder, you’ll need another person to place them in the machine manually.
- Types of pitches. It’s a good idea to select a pitching machine that has the capacity to throw different types of balls. This means you can practice a variety of different techniques using your machine.
- Warranty. Electrical pitching machines contain a fair bit of kit, so it’s a good idea to look out for a manufacturer that offers at least a 1-year warranty. Some of the machines we reviewed include a 5-year warranty that gives great peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a baseball pitching machine and how does it work?
Baseball pitching machines mechanically pitch balls using a variety of different methods. Some machines are manual and are powered simply by pulling a lever. Others require electricity, with the ball being passed between up to 3 wheels which drive the ball away at speed. More expensive have control panels which allow you to adjust the speed of pitch, as well as the option to pivot the head, allowing different types of pitch to be selected.
Can you use regular baseballs in a pitching machine?
While some manufacturers suggest that you can, it’s always important to check as some machines definitely can’t be used with regular baseballs. Even if your machine can use regular balls, it’s usually best to avoid them if possible. The seams can cause errors in pitching due to the uneven surface created by the stitches.
To extend the life of your pitching machine, it’s best to use dimpled practice balls that are specifically designed for use with machines.
How fast can a pitching machine throw?
The top speed of any pitching machine will vary between manufacturers. For example, the machines included in our review can pitch at speeds between 15 – 100 MPH. The top speed of each machine will also vary depending on what type of ball is being used.
Do pros use pitching machines?
While pitching machines can never recreate the same effect as facing a live pitcher, plenty of professionals will use them to perfect certain aspects of their game. Of course, it’s always easier for a professional to have access to a pitcher to practice with!
Other Baseball Pitching Machines We Reviewed
- Softball Pitching Machines
- Baseball Pitching Machines with Auto Feeders
- Kids Baseball Pitching Machines
- Other Baseball Pitching Machines
Softball Pitching Machines
BSN Bulldog Baseball and Softball Pitching Machine
This machine can pitch 11″ softballs, 12″ softballs, and baseballs. It can be run on 110 volt AC or by using a generator.
Key Features:
- Maximum speed 60 MPH
- Lightweight
- Heavy-duty legs
Cost: $725
Heater Sports Power Alley Softball Machine
This softball pitching machine can throw at variable speeds up to 40 MPH and comes with a 1-year warranty on parts.
Key Features:
- Suitable for 11″ softballs
- Maximum speed 40 MPH
- Fully enclosed wheel for safety
Cost: $200
Heater Sports Softball Pitching Machine
The auto-ball feeder on this machine can hold up to 9 balls and can throw pop-ups, line drives, and grounders.
Key Features:
- Pitches every 9 seconds
- Maximum speed 50 MPH
- Suitable for 12″ softballs
Cost: $450
Jugs Changeup Super Softball Pitching Machine
The patented “always see the ball” technology on Jugs machines means you’re always ready to hit the ball. This machine can change from fastball to change up with the touch of a button.
Key Features:
- Maximum speed 70 MPH
- Suitable for use with a wide range of balls
- Includes cart for easy maneuverability.
Cost: $2100
Jugs PS50 Baseball and Softball Pitching Machine
This introductory machine throws up to 50 MPH and can be used with both regulation weight baseballs and softballs.
Key Features:
- 1-year guarantee
- Easy to transport
- Digital speed display
Baseball Pitching Machines with Auto Feeders
Heater Sports Crusher Curveball Pitching Machine
The golf ball-sized balls used with this machine are designed to improve your hitting skills and depth perception.
Key Features:
- Maximum speed 45 MPH
- Large hopper holds 4 dozen mini-balls
- 1-year warranty
Cost: $100
Heater Sports Deuce 75 Baseball Pitching Machine
The pivoting head of this machine means it can pitch fastballs, curveballs, grounders, pop-flys, and sliders!
Key Features:
- Includes 12 ball auto feeder
- Maximum speed 85 MPH
- Pitches every 8 seconds
Cost: $800
Heater Sports Heavy Duty Baseball Pitching Machine
This heavy-duty machine includes an auto feeder that holds up to 12 baseballs and will pitch one every 8 seconds.
Key Features:
- Maximum speed 52 MPH
- Uses real baseballs
- Pivot head adjustment
Cost: $450
Jugs Small-Ball Pitching Machine
This small-ball machine uses 5-inch balls to improve accuracy. The auto feeder can hold up to 25 balls (which need to be bought separately).
Key Features:
- 1-year warranty
- Maximum speed 75 MPH
- Portable and lightweight
Cost: $265
SKLZ Lightning Bolt Baseball Pitching Machine
This budget-friendly machine uses soft practice balls and has a 5-second delay between each pitch.
Key Features:
- Auto feeder holds up to 26 balls (12 included with purchase)
- Maximum speed 35 MPH
- Powered by batteries or AC adapter
Kids Baseball Pitching Machines
Diggin Lazer Kids Baseball Pitching Machine
This bargain kids pitching machine features a beginner mode with a slow, pop-up pitch which makes it easier for your kids to practice.
Key Features:
- Includes 5 plastic baseballs
- Remote control bat
- Pitches up to 25 feet away
Cost: $30
Franklin Sports MLB Power Pitcher for Kids
This small pitching machine is a great introduction for any young baseball player. The auto-feeder holds up to 9 balls and the red light on the machine lets you know when one is about to get pitched!
Key Features:
- Maximum speed 20 MPH
- Includes 4 foam baseballs
- Battery operated
Cost: $39
Heater Sports Slider Lite Pitching Machine
The adjustable pitch speed on this machine can pitch at speeds from 10 – 60 MPH making it a great choice for families with both kids and adults who need to practice.
Key Features:
- Pitches fastballs, curveballs, grounders, and pop flys
- Covered pitching wheels for safety
- Includes 12 ball auto-feeder
Cost: $180
iPlay Kids Automatic Baseball Pitching Machine
This lightweight kids baseball pitcher can easily be moved from place to place and includes an automatic ball feeder that can hold up to 5 balls.
Key Features:
- Battery-powered
- Includes 5 plastic baseballs
- Pitches every 5 seconds
Cost: $30
Louisville Slugger Triple Flame Hand Held Pitching Machine
No need to worry about how to power this pitching machine, as you can do it yourself! It can be used to pitch level, strikes, grounders, and fly balls.
Key Features:
- Compatible with all ball types
- Maximum speed 60 MPH
- Lightweight
Other Baseball Pitching Machines
Hack Attack Baseball Pitching Machine
While this machine might be the most expensive we’ve reviewed, it can pitch at speeds of 100 MPH, making it perfect if you’re serious about baseball.
Key Features:
- Portable
- Pivoting head for many pitch styles
- Suitable for high school players up to professional level
Cost: $3300
Heater Sports Combo Pitching Machine
This combination pitching machine can be used for both baseballs and softballs and is suitable for players from 8 years and up.
Key Features:
- Maximum speed 60 MPH
- 1-year warranty
- Uses standard A/C power
Cost: $600
Heater Sports Perfect Pitch Machine
This manual machine needs no electricity and can pitch real baseballs, as well as lite and plastic balls.
Key Features:
- Maximum speed 60 MPH
- Extremely lightweight
- Portable
Cost: $130
Heater Sports Soft Toss Pitching Machine
This drop toss pitching machine holds up to 12 real baseballs and is designed to help increase focus, swing and hand-eye coordination.
Key Features:
- Lightweight
- Battery lasts for 8 hours
- Uses real baseballs
Cost: $80
SKLZ Catapult Soft Toss Batting and Fielding Trainer
This machine helps you to perfect both the defensive and offensive parts of your game by helping build accuracy and coordination.
Key Features:
- Uses real baseballs
- Pitches every 8 seconds
- Adjustable height and distance
Cost: $60