Baseball & Softball Pitching Machine

Whether you are an amateur or professional player, you will surely be interested in purchasing this incredible machine that can help you improve your skills. Sometimes it can be quite difficult to find someone who can consistently throw balls. With this in mind, most manufacturers have tried to develop useful tools such as pitching machines that can help players improve their hitting skills. The best part is that most of these manufacturers have succeeded in developing smart devices that will help strengthen the skills of any player.

We spend more than 30 hours reviewing and analyzing various types and models of pitching machines and these 11 models were our favorite ones. We have tried to find affordable yet quality models that are very easy to use and operate. Take a look at the comparison table below and choose the one that meets and exceeds your requirements.

Top 11 Baseball & Softball Pitching Machines Comparison

Photo	Product Name	Age	Throw Distance	Speed Range	Delay Time	Highlight	Price
Best Overall	1. Franklin MLB Pitching Machine	5 years old to adult	25 ft. to 30 ft.	40 mph	7 seconds	It holds 9 balls at a time	Check Price
Best Baseball & Softball Pitching Machine for Slow Pitch	2. Louisville Slugger UPM 45 Blue Flame	5 years old to adult	40 ft. to 60 ft.	18-45 mph , 18-60 mph	Manual Feed	Official pitching machine of both Babe Ruth League and Pony Baseball and Softball	Check Price
Our Choice	3. JUGS Lite-Flite Machine	8 years old to adult	20 ft. to 30 ft.	15-85 mph	Manual Feed	2-Years warranty period	Check Price
Best Baseball & Softball Pitching Machine for Pitching Time	4. SKLZ Lightning Bolt Pitching Machine Pro	8 years old to adult	25 ft.	35 mph	5 seconds	Angle adjusts for different pitching locations	Check Price
Best Baseball & Softball Pitching Machine for the Money	5. Franklin Sports MLB 14071	5 to 15 years old	20 ft. to 25 ft.	5-10 mph	Manual Feed	Tripod style base	Check Price
	6. BSN Bulldog Pitching Machine	5 years old to adult	20 ft. to 35 ft.	55 mph , 60 mph	Manual Feed	Urethane wheel eliminates air pressure issues	Check Price
	7. HEATER SPORTS Baseball Pitching Machine	8 years old to adult	20 ft. to 25 ft.	10-45 mph , 15-60 mph	8 seconds	Tubular-steel tripod stand	Check Price
	8. Heater Sports Machine BH199	8 years old to adult	2 ft	15-45 mph	8 seconds	It holds 12 balls at a time	Check Price
	9. MaxBP Machine	8 years old to adult	20 ft. to 60 ft.	30-130 mph	5 seconds	Triple Drop feature can throw 3 times as many pitches per interval	Check Price
	10. Jugs m7000	5 years old to adult	up to 35 feet	75 mph	5 seconds	It holds 25 balls at a time
	11. SKLZ Catapult Soft Toss	8+	Not given information	Not given information	8 seconds	It holds 8 balls at a time

1. Franklin MLB Pitching Machine

Check Price at Amazon

Franklin MLB Pitching Machine

Specifications

• Pitching time: 7 seconds
• Throw distance: 25 ft. to 30 ft.
• It holds : up to 9 balls
• Height: Adjustable height – to 3 different angles
• Included balls: Yes – 6 balls
• Highlights: Light indicator – announces you when the ball pitches

Although it lacks several features and it is not as powerful as its competitors, the Franklin MLB Pitching Machine still is a great option to consider when making a purchase. It is a lightweight machine that measures 17.75 x 61 x 45 inches and weighs 3.19 lbs..

It is recommended for kids aged 5 and up. Even adults can use this pitching machine. It is portable, so it is a great choice for household use. You just have to install it in your backyard and you are good to go. Also, it is important to know that it throws up to 25 ft. to 30 ft. and its pitch angle is adjustable. This means that it can throw a ball every 10 seconds. It can hold up 9 balls with ease and its speed range is about 40 miles per hour.

2. Louisville Slugger UPM 45 Blue Flame

Check Price at Amazon

Louisville Slugger UPM 45 Blue Flame

Specifications

• Pitching time: Manual feed
• Throw distance: 18 to 45 mph (hard balls), 60 mph (light balls)
• It holds : 1 ball
• Suitable for: All ages
• Included balls: No
• Highlights: Accurate and easy to maneuver

The Louisville Slugger UPM 45 Blue Flame is in our top preferences for many reasons. The first being that it is easy to use and move from a field to another. Another important thing to know is that it can throw many types of balls, including hard balls, dimple balls, plastic, and light balls. It is also worth mentioning that it can throw balls up to 60 mph. In fact, it can throw hard balls up to 45 mph and plastic light balls up to 60 mph.

Although it is a manual machine, it is extremely accurate and does a great job pitching balls. The machine has so many features that it is quite difficult to find something better than that. Its features are excellent for young players and help them a lot to improve their hitting skills. Although it is efficient and very accurate, it is also one of the most affordable pitching machines available in the current market.

3. JUGS Lite-Flite Machine

Check Price at Amazon

JUGS Lite-Flite Machine

Specifications

• Pitching time: Manual feed
• Throw distance: 11 inch or 12 inch
• Design : Quick-Change design – it changes faster from baseball to softball in minutes
• Suitable for: 8+
• Powered by: Self-contained battery – provides up to 3 hours of continuous use
• Highlights: JUGS “always see the ball” delivery system

Over the last years, the pitching machines have become incredibly popular among amateur and professionals players alike. Most of them are equipped with impressive features and are so easy to use that even kids can do it. After reviewing several machines, we can honestly confirm that the JUGS Lite-Flite Machine is by far the most interesting yet easy to use out there. It is an electrical device that is powered by a 1.3 amplifier motor. It is capable of throwing up to 11 to 12 inches lite-flite softballs and baseballs. Also, it is incredibly fast.

The speed range can be set anywhere from 30 to 85 miles per hour at 25 feet. Another important thing to know about this model is that its base casting can easily be adjusted to 360 degrees. In addition to this, there is a quick change mechanism that will help any player switch from softball to baseball and back with ease. Overall, this machine has plenty of functions so it is a great option to consider when making a purchase.

4. SKLZ Lightning Bolt Pitching Machine Pro

Check Price at Amazon

SKLZ Lightning Bolt Pitching Machine Pro

Specifications

• Pitching time: 5 seconds
• Throw distance: 25 ft.
• Powered by: 6C Batteries or powered by AC adapter
• Holds up: 26 balls at a time
• Included balls: Yes, 12 balls included
• Highlights: Angle adjustment

The SKLZ Lightning Bolt Pitching Machine Pro is a product that will surely meet your requirements. It is a good pitching machine that measures 9.25 x 9.25 x 10.5 inches and weighs 3.7 lbs.. It is a lightweight product that can easily be moved from a part to another if you want to exercise in different fields. The right age for using this machine is 8 to adult. This means that it is so easy to use that even an 8 years old child can use it without any problems.

The machine throws the balls up to 25 ft. and the delay time between balls is 5 seconds. It is also worth mentioning that it is able to hold 26 balls at a time and the speed range is 35 miles per hour. It has many features as compared to other models and considering its reasonable price, we really think that this is a great value for money.

5. Franklin Sports MLB 14071

Check Price at Amazon

Franklin Sports MLB 14071

Specifications

• Pitching time: 5 seconds
• Throw distance: 20 ft. to 25 ft.
• Powered by: 4 “C” Batteries
• Holds up: 9 balls at a time
• Included balls: Yes, 6 balls included
• Highlights: Angle adjustment

The Franklin Sports MLB 14071 is ideal for young baseball and softball players. It is a good training tool specifically designed for practice hitting and fielding. It comes equipped with tri-pod style base and stable ground stakes that helps prevent tipping. In fact, this is what we really like about this machine. The fact that it is extremely stable is a big plus. It provides maximum stability, so it is extremely safe to use. It features a telescopic ball feeder that can be expanded to hold 9 balls.

In addition to this, it is also worth mentioning that it comes with 6 Aero-Strike plastic baseballs. It is ideal for ages 5 – 15. It is very easy to use and setup. All you have to do is to set it to the designated angle and height. It is extremely fast and throws the baseball balls really far. Also, it is quite affordable. It comes with a very reasonable price in comparison to its competitors.

6. BSN Bulldog Pitching Machine

Check Price at Amazon

BSN Bulldog Pitching Machine

Specifications

• Pitching time: Manual feed
• Speed: 30-60 mph
• Powered by: Generator 1/4 HP D.C. motor or 110 volt AC
• It uses: 11” and 12” softballs
• Included balls: No
• Highlights: Durable urethane wheel for air pressure troubles

Looking to upgrade your baseball equipment? If so, make sure you get the right pitching machine for your needs. Since there are so many models available on the market, it is quite confusing to choose the right one. The pitching machine by BSN Sports is a great model, suitable for every level of play from beginners to advanced baseball and softball players. It is ideal for fields and outdoor training.

It comes with a powerful ¼ HP D.C. motor and heavy-duty legs for increased stability. It can throw baseballs and 11” and 12” softballs with a speed of 30-60 mph. As mentioned above, it is ideal for training as it stimulates a wide variety of pitches. It helps you become a better player in a short time.

7. HEATER SPORTS Baseball Pitching Machine

Check Price at Amazon

HEATER SPORTS Baseball Pitching Machine

Specifications

• Pitching time: Manual feed
• Speed: 60 mph for light balls and 45 mph for baseballs
• Powered by: Powerful motor
• Tripod stand type: Steel tubing
• Construction: Nylon/ fiberglass housing
• Highlights: Accurate machine

The HEATER SPORTS Baseball Pitching Machine is a great choice for baseball players who want to improve their skills and want a quality yet affordable pitching machine. It is an advanced model that thanks to its ability to throw up to 60 miles per hour can take your game to the next level. It can hold 12 balls at a time and the delay time between pitches is about 8 seconds.

The device can be used by kids 8 years old and up as it is very easy to use and setup, no supervision required. It measures 36 x 48 x 36 inches and weighs 30 lbs.. Its lightweight feature makes it portable and easy to carry with you when you want to exercise. The reason why it is one of our favorite models is that it comes with a ball feeder system that drops a ball into the device every 8 seconds.

8. Heater Sports Machine BH199

Check Price at Amazon

Heater Sports Machine BH199

Specifications

• Pitching time: 8 seconds
• Speed: 10 – 45 mph for baseballs and leather balls and 15 – 60 mph for lighter balls
• Included balls: Yes, 12 balls
• Holds up: 12 balls at a time
• Powered by: A/C Powered or batteries
• Highlights: Fast Accurate machine

This machine has the ability to pitch lite and real-size balls. As well as, it’s also compatible with leather and dimpled balls. All you will need to do in order to use this machine is to plug into any standard wall outlet or insert the battery pack. It has an energy-efficient operation which means that you can use it for many hours. What stands out about this product is the fact that it has been designed with 10 speeds. The speeds range from 10 to 45 mph. The lite balls can travel at a speed of 15 to 60 mph as they’re lightweight.

The AC powered spiral ball feeder will drop the ball into the machine every 8 seconds which means that you don’t have to manually drop the balls. In addition to this, this feature makes it suitable for children, teenagers, and adults. It doesn’t matter how skilled you are; you will see an improved by using this model.

9. MaxBP Machine

Check Price at Amazon

MaxBP Machine

Specifications

• Pitching time: 5 seconds
• Throw distance: 20 ft. to 60 ft.
• Included balls: No
• Powered by: 8-hour internal battery with battery charger included or AC plug-in outlet
• Triple Drop feature: Capable of throwing 3 times as many pitches per interval
• Highlights: Load indicator light with variable brightness levels

Have you ever thought of improving your baseball skills with a pitching machine? If not, you should know that this is the best way to practice baseball or softball alone. There are hundreds of models available on the market and we understand that it could be quite confusing to make the right choice. With this in mind, we are ready to provide you with detailed information about one of the best models out there. The pitching machine by MaxBP is an excellent machine that will help you practice hitting on your own. It is a great companion that helps you improve your performance in a short time. It uses 5 speed and distance settings from 30 to 140 mph, which means that it is much faster than many other machines on the market. It includes a turbo speed feature that will stimulate pitches on a fast mode.

What we really like about this machine is the fact that it is capable of holding about 48 balls. On your practice, you will use wiffle balls, curveballs and fastballs. Keep in mind that you cannot use standard baseballs and softballs. However, it is not only a Baseball or Softball machine. It also works for other sports including Lacrosse, Cricket or Hockey. Another important feature to consider when making such a purchase is weight. As compared to many other similar models, it only weighs 12 lbs. It is a lightweight model that can be easily moved from a part to another. In what regards its price, it is a bit expensive, but if you want a quality machine, this is absolutely worth the money.

10. Jugs m7000

Jugs m7000

Specifications

• Pitching time: 5 seconds (manual of automatic feeder)
• Throw distance: up to 35 ft.
• Construction: Heavy-duty steel with adjustable legs
• It holds: up to 25 balls at a time
• Speed : 75 mph
• Powered by: 110-volt AC or battery pack
• Types of pitches: Fastballs and curveballs

Take a quick look at this incredible pitching machine and you will be surprised to discover how well it works and how much it will help you improve your baseball game. Specially designed for any young baseball player keen to play better and improve its baseball skills, this youth baseball pitching machine is among the most popular models out there. It comes in a small size, measuring 26 x 14 x 10 inches only. At just 23 lbs., it is a lightweight machine that can easily be carried on the field.

As compared to some of the above opponents, it uses small balls only. A single ball measures 5 inches and weighs 5 oz. They are made of polyurethane foam. Instead, the machine comes with a durable construction that guarantees a long life. It is made of heavy-duty metal. The adjustable metal legs ensure maximum stability. Although you wouldn’t expect to do wonders on the field, find out that it throws ball up to 35 feet with a speed of up to 75 mph. It can store up to 25 balls and release them every 5 seconds. It operates on standard 110-volt AC power.

Although it comes in small size and it is specially designed for kids, do not let kids under 5 to use it. Due to its small size, the machine can be used indoors. This way, you will never miss your practice due to bad weather conditions.

11. SKLZ Catapult Soft Toss

SKLZ Catapult Soft Toss

Specifications

• Pitching time: 8 seconds
• Throw distance: Adjustable height and distance
• Construction: Heavy-duty steel with adjustable legs
• It holds: up to 8 balls at a time
• Speed : 75 mph
• Powered by: AC adapter or batteries
• Works on : Offensive and defensive aspects of the game

Looking to purchase a quality yet affordable pitching machine that will help you improve your baseball game? Well, then, SKLZ Catapult Soft Toss Baseball is exactly what you need. With 13.5 x 9.5 x 7 inches in size and 1 lb. in weight, it is by far the most lightweight pitching machine out there. In comparison to many other pitching products, it helps you achieve both offensive and defensive objectives of the game.

It uses standard 9” plastic or tennis balls. It can be adjusted for height and distance and it releases balls every 8 seconds. What we like most about this machine are its features. It comes equipped with a full package of useful features. For example, it has a spiral ball funnel that can store up to 8 standard balls. More than that, it runs on 4 D batteries or it works with AC adaptor. The machine is recommended for kids ages 8+.

Essential Features to Consider When Purchasing

If you are interested in purchasing a pitching machine, there are important factors you need to take into consideration. They might be similar, but there is a small difference between them. Therefore, in order to know more about these products and find the best model, you should have the following criteria:

• Design

  When purchasing a pitching machine, the design is one of the most important factors to consider. Generally speaking, there are two types of machines, such as the wheel operated devices and the compressed air devices. The most popular model between these two is the wheel operated one. Also, it is important to understand that the dual wheel model is suitable for experienced players while the single wheel model is best for beginners and amateurs. The first model is accurate and extremely fast. For this reason, most beginners should avoid it. In what regards the compressed air devices, these are extremely easy to use and very safe. They use air to throw the balls, so there is no danger of that.

• Types of balls

  Regarding the ball types, it is very important to know several things. For example, it is good to know that most pitching machines use standard practice balls and not real balls for softball or baseball. However, you can practice with real balls, but the practice ones are more durable and resist more than the real ones.

• Speed

  Another important factor to consider when making a purchase is the ball speed. This factor is essential for your practice. As such, take a look at your chosen model and consider how powerful it is and how fast it can throw the balls. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, you will need a machine that can throw more than 70 miles per hour. As a beginner, you will need a machine that throws at least 60 miles per hour. On the other hand, if you are a professional player, a device that can reach ball speeds of up to 80 miles per hour is exactly what you want.

• Portability

  Deciding between manual and electric machines can be quite confusing and a bit complicated as both models have their pros and cons. While the manual models are very portable and easy to carry anywhere without worrying about anything, with the electric ones things are different. Since they are usually equipped with a battery or a generator, they are a bit heavy to transport and carry from a field to another. On the other hand, you need to understand that manual machines lack certain features while the electric ones have a plethora of impressive features that will make your game and practice much easier.

---

Frequently Asked Questions






1Does a pitching machine works with curveballs?

It depends on the model. Not all models can throw curveballs. However, there are few models, including the MaxBP Machine and Jugs m7000 that work just fine with curveballs.

2Do they work with regular balls?

We recommend you to avoid using regular softballs in pitching machines. The regular balls are harder and a bit larger than pitching machine balls. They can get stuck in the machine.




3 How fast it can throw?

Some models can throw up to 60 ft. while others have a throwing distance of 35 ft.




4 At what age should a child start using a pitching machine?

Since most modern machines are equipped with safety features and they all have an easy-to-use mechanism, typically around the age of 8 a child can start using a baseball pitching machine.




5 How do you feed a baseball pitching machine?

Most pitching machines can hold several balls at once. They have a delay time that allows you to feed them slowly and at the same pace.




6Can it throw 2 balls at once?

Absolutely not! Modern models can throw any type of ball with consistent speed and direction, but they will never throw multiple balls simultaneously.




7What types of balls are best to use?

Dimple balls are good for outdoor practice. Also, softer foam balls are a good choice, but for indoor practice only. They are much lighter than dimple balls, so they may not be thrown as fast.




8How can I measure the ball’s speed?

A baseball radar gun can help you detect the speed of a ball. With advanced models, that adopt new techniques, the range of speeds varies from 19 to 45 m/s.




9What are the most popular accessories that come with a pitching machine?

Most pitching machines are usually equipped with convenient storage bags and several plastic and foam practice balls.




10 What are the advantages of a manual pitching machine over automatic machines?

The manual-operated machines are completely portable. They don’t require electricity or batteries. Since they lack the automatic mechanism, they are lighter and fit easily in the back seat of a small car. Plus, the player can control every pitch.

---

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Best Overall Franklin MLB

Franklin MLB is a budget-friendly machine. It is electronic and it can hold multiple balls. It is ideal for children and adults alike. It waits up to 7 seconds until it throws the next ball to a distance of 25 ft. to 30 ft. As compared to Louisville Slugger UPM 45 Blue Flame that can hold one ball only, Franklin can hold up to 9 balls at a time. The height of this machine is adjustable, to you can adjust it to 3 different angles according to your kid’s preferences. What we like about this model is the fact that it let you know when it’s about to throw the ball. It has an indicator that lights every time it pitches.

Best Baseball & Softball Pitching Machine for Slow Pitch Louisville Slugger UPM 45

It may be an excellent choice for you if you need a manual device that can handle slowpitch balls. Unlike most models, it is capable of throwing balls up to a distance of 60 feet. It is suitable for children of all ages. Since everything on this model has to be done manually, we highly recommend it for beginners and novice players as the pitching time doesn’t force them to hurry up when they hit the ball. Although it lacks certain features, it still is easy to operate and even a child can handle it.

Our Choice JUGS Lite-Flite

This is fast and comes packed with plenty of features. It is a bit more expensive than the other 2 models but it is versatile and user-friendly. In what regards delaying time, it is similar to the previous model. It is a manual machine that even if it is equipped with a self-contained battery that allows you to play for up to 3 h. continuously, it needs to be set manually. It can release balls up to 12 inches. Due to its Quick-Change mechanism, it is very easy to use and set up.

Best Baseball & Softball Pitching Machine for Pitching Time SKLZ Lightning Bolt Pitching Machine Pro

This is a professional model that automatically throws balls 25 ft. away. It takes only 5 seconds to release the next ball and it is capable of holding up to 26 balls at a time. The device throws any pitch from any angle. The pitching angles are adjustable and allow you to change the location whenever you want. It is operated by 6C batteries that provide several hours of continuous operations. In addition, it provides a lot of benefits. Not only that it helps you improve your swing, but it also helps improve hand-eye coordination. Also, it is a quality softball training aids for pitching, batting and fielding that can help any player become better.

Best Baseball & Softball Pitching Machine for the Money Franklin Sports MLB 14071

It could be quite expensive to get a professional hitting coach that could improve your swing. This requires a lot of money and a lot of time as well. You are not going to be very happy to hear that and we know it! For this reason, we are glad to introduce to you a much affordable device that can help you improve your game. The Franklin Sports MLB 14071 is a quality pitching machine that helps gamers improve their pitching, fielding, hitting and more. It doesn’t cost as much as other baseball training aids and it can do wonders for your confidence.