How To Find A Good Pitching Machine?
by: Doug Mahopac

Pitching machines are a unique commodity that can work to address any problems you may be having inside the batting box. Whether you are a Little League star or a professional baseball champion, the benefits of using a quality pitching machine is numerous. However, the task of choosing a sound pitching machine are often overwhelming, as each machine has a different quality, attribute, and cost associated with the machinery. If you are in the market of choosing a good pitching machine for yourself or your baseball star, consider these pointers.

First, look to a pitching machine that is soundly build and uses quality materials. This will not only allow you to invest in a better quality machine, but also get the most use out of your pitching machine. If necessary, you may need to expand your budget in order to purchase a pitching machine that is able to hold up through standard wear and tear associated with practices. Even though you will be investing a greater amount of money in the beginning, you will save by not having to shell out cash for costly repairs or even replacement of the entire machine.

Next, look to a pitching machine with several options in regards to the style and speed of pitch. This is critical if you are purchasing the machine for a younger player who will need to expand his or her game in order to successfully take the faster pitches. Furthermore, the biggest complaint that coaches have the pitching machines is their ability to perfectly replicate a pitch each and every time. This replication allows the player the comfort of knowing exactly what type of pitch to expect, which is not the case when it comes to actual play or practicing against a human pitcher. By having a machine that can vary the speed, style, and location of the pitches, you will be able to better perform on the diamond.

Additionally, choose a machine that is built solid enough for your needs. Develop a budget and work to find options within your price range that are appropriate for your needs. A beginning baseball or softball player does not need a pitching machine that is found in commercial batting cages or in the equipment rooms of professional ball clubs. Furthermore, an advancing player may need a machine that can advance with his or her skills. Having a player practice with an inappropriate machine is often as detrimental as not practicing with a machine at all. Once you have established your needs and budget, begin looking on the market to find an appropriate pitching machine that meets all of your criteria.

Keep in mind that the purchase of a good quality pitching machine requires you to have an appropriate area in which to house the machine itself. Often, smaller years are prohibitive of the permanent installation of the pitching machine without also installing a batting cage. Consider looking to a portable machine that you can take with you during practices to ensure both the machine and the player has ample room to practice. Furthermore, safety is a huge concern when it comes to the purchase of a good quality pitching machine, so you should invest in the proper protective gear, namely a well constructed batting helmet.

When looking to purchase a pitching machine, consider your local sporting supply store. Often, the purchase of more professional machines requires you to turn to a store that specializes in softball or baseball merchandise or a catalog that sells directly to the general public. The World Wide Web is an excellent tool for both researching and purchasing high quality pitching machines, so consider this another option during your search.