9 best softball machines
Softball machines, specifically pitching machines, are valuable training equipment used in softball to improve hitting and fielding skills. These machines are designed to deliver consistent and accurate pitches, making them an essential tool for both individual players and teams. Here's what you should know about softball machines:
Purpose: Softball machines are primarily used to simulate pitches for batting practice. They can deliver a variety of pitches, including fastballs, curveballs, sliders, and changeups, allowing players to practice hitting different pitch types.
Pitching Accuracy: These machines are known for their precision and consistency in delivering pitches. This accuracy helps players develop their timing and swing mechanics.
Adjustability: Most softball machines are adjustable, allowing coaches and players to control the speed, trajectory, and spin of the pitches.This adaptability makes them suitable for players of all skill levels.
Safety: Softball machines are designed with safety in mind. They often include protective screens or cages to prevent the ball from hitting the pitcher or the person feeding the machine.
Portability: Many pitching machines are portable and can be easily transported to practice fields or batting cages. They can be powered by electricity, batteries, or even gas, depending on the model.
Training Aids: In addition to batting practice, softball machines can also be used for fielding drills. They can simulate grounders, pop-ups, and line drives to help players improve their defensive skills.
Solo Practice: Softball machines are particularly useful for solo practice sessions. Players can set up the machine and work on their hitting without needing a pitcher.
Team Practice: Teams often use pitching machines during practice to efficiently work on various aspects of the game, such as batting against specific pitch types or fine-tuning defensive plays.
Types of Machines: There are different types of softball machines, including single-wheel machines, dual-wheel machines (which can throw different pitches simultaneously), and even advanced machines with digital control panels for precise adjustments.
Cost: The price of softball machines can vary widely depending on their features and capabilities. Basic models are more affordable, while high-end machines with advanced features may be more expensive.
Softball machines play a crucial role in skill development for softball players at all levels, from beginners to professionals. They provide a controlled environment for practicing and refining hitting and fielding skills, making them an indispensable tool for softball teams and individual players looking to enhance their performance.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best softball machines on the market- The NEW JUGS MVP Combo Pitching Machine is designed specifically for pitching-machine leagues and comes with a new higher speed range—up to 60 mph!
- With a digital readout display you get quick and easy speed adjustments—Throws form 20-60 mph.
- Set up for either baseball or softball, the JUGS MVP Combo throws from a realistic release point.
- Portable and easy to move and set up, weighs just 56 lbs. One person can remove the legs and load the JUGS in the trunk of a car.
- Throws regulation size and weight baseballs and softballs. Throws 11" or 12" softballs, baseballs, Sting-Free baseballs—dimpled and seam, Sting-Free softballs—dimpled and seam, tennis balls, Lite-Flite baseballs and softballs, SOFTIE softballs and baseballs, the JUGS Pearl, LeatherLast Softballs and JUGS BULLDOG baseballs and softballs.
User questions & answers
Question: | I need a combo single wheel that can use both baseballs and softballs, throws grounders and fly balls. Which is best one |
Answer: | This one does it all. Just have to switch chute and legs for softballs |
Question: | does it pitch an arch underhand type softball pitch |
Answer: | I can only tell you that a very well known softball coach highly recommended this particular pitching machine. He has won numerous championships girls softball awards. We bought this for my 10 yr old grandson for little league practice, so I can’t answer your question. Guessing??? Yes?? |
Question: | It left thick black rubber on 12in softballs. Can you not use regular balls in the machine |
Answer: | I use high quality leather baseballs. In the beginning, used synthetic rubber balls and yes they left marks. Not so much with leather baseballs. |
Question: | Can i purchase a automatic ball feeder for this unit? If yes what model |
Answer: | Yep. Not sure what model is compatible |
Product features
JUGS MVP Combo Pitching Machine
Whether it's set up for baseball or softball the JUGS BP1 Combo pitching machine throws from a realistic delivery height. Comes complete with a baseball chute and long straight legs and a 12” softball chute and short curved legs.
Set up for softball, the JUGS MVP Combo Pitching Machine Delivers
Pitching from a realistic delivery height with speeds up to 60 mph, this machine is the perfect machine for youth as well as high school athletes.
JUGS MVP Combo Pitching Machine set up for baseball
Product description
The Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine has all of the unique features of the Hack Attack Professional Pitching Machine. This unique three-wheel design allows you to see the ball clearly all the way through the feeding motion, acceleration and release, just like a live pitcher. The hitter sees when to stride and the angle of release, giving him an actual live-arm sense of timing and location. In developing hitters, especially at younger ages, there is nothing more important than timing and vision. Any change in pitch, from fastballs to any breaking pitch, is quickly dialed in using the three speed knobs. (All two-wheel units require time consuming awkward throwing head adjustments to change from risers to drops or right to left handed breaking pitches.) With a quick turn of the dials you can effortlessly throw 60+ MPH fastballs, risers, drops, right- and left-handed screwballs up and into the hitters. (On other two-wheel pitching machines it may be an awkward time-consuming adjustment.) The elevation adjustment handle will raise or lower the pitch. With a simple turn, you can even move the pitch up or down within the strike zone between pitches. Throwing head pivots instantly in any direction for all fungo work including deep 175 ft. fly balls, line drives, catcher's pop-ups, infield pop-ups and grounders. The Junior Hack Attack quickly moves on and off the field, just tilt it, unsocket legs and easily roll on two transporting wheels. The front wheel guards insure the throwing wheels never come in contact with the ground. The Junior Hack Attack is designed for use with all regulation and pitching machine balls. It is also the only pitching machine that will convert quickly to throw a special 7.5" diameter vision training ball. This critical size forces centering and tracking while maintaining proper hitting mechanics. No assembly is required. Product dimensions: approx. 25” x 20” x 26” 75 pounds Shipping weight: 100 pounds
- The Junior Hack Attack will throw 60+ MPH fastballs, risers, drops, right- and left-handed screwballs up and into the hitters
- Recommended for youth league, backyard, travel teams, drills at all levels including high school, college and professional
- Throwing head pivots instantly in any direction for ground balls, line drives, pop-ups and 175 ft. fly balls
- Extremely portable, fits into any compact car, including a Mini Cooper
- Five year limited warranty.Weight:75 pounds
User questions & answers
Question: | What balls can be put into this machine |
Answer: | Yes they are |
Question: | Has anyone used real softballs in the junior hack attack? Will it go over 60 mph on rise, curve, etc |
Answer: | Hi there unfortunately I am not able to upload a size chart because I’m not the manufacturer. I am a consumer like you. You can go to the Franklin website for this information. Hope this helps! |
Question: | How accurate is the machine |
Answer: | Yes, the entire glove is leather. |
Question: | Does this run on a battery or can it and is it included |
Answer: | Hi, Thanks for checking out an item we offer within our Amazon store. This glove is a recreational level glove that could be used for either baseball or softball. It is not specific to either one. Great glove for a weekend softball player or for mom or dad to use to play catch with kids in back yard. Let us know if you have any other questions. Thanks again. Larry, LNC Sports, LLC |
Product features
Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine Features
The Junior Hack Attack Baseball Pitching Machine has all of the unique features of the Hack Attack Professional Pitching Machine. This unique three-wheel design allows you to see the ball clearly all the way through the feeding motion, acceleration and release, just like a live pitcher. The hitter sees when to stride and the angle of release, giving him an actual live-arm sense of timing and location. In developing hitters, especially at younger ages, there is nothing more important than timing and vision.
Any change in pitch, from fastballs to any breaking pitch, is quickly dialed in using the three speed knobs. The elevation adjustment handle will raise or lower the pitch. With a simple turn, you can even move the pitch up or down within the strike zone between pitches. Throwing head pivots instantly in any direction for all fungo work including deep 250 ft. fly balls, line drives, catcher's pop-ups, infield pop-ups and grounders.
The Junior Hack Attack quickly moves on and off the field, just tilt it, unsocket legs and easily roll on two transporting wheels. It is designed for use with all regulation and pitching machine balls. It is also the only pitching machine that will convert quickly to throw a special 7.5" diameter vision training ball.
"I have been coaching professional baseball, including the major league level, for over 30 years and I have used the baseball version of this machine every day for both offensive and defensive work. It is by far the best machine on the market."
Joe Maddon MLB Manager
Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine Accessories
Conversion Kit-Converts Baseball to Softball. Enables the Junior Hack Attack to throw 7.5” undersized balls for vision training.
Fungo Leg Kit-Set of 3 legs with solid, heavy-duty casters allow for ease of maneuverability around the field during fungo training.
See all accessories at sports attack.com
Not just a manufacturer.
Sports Attack was founded 1995 in Nevada, USA. To say that we are manufacturers of quality sports training equipment just seems to not capture the essence of who we are. We do not just design our products; we explore, scrutinize, analyze and engineer our products. We do not just manufacture or assemble our equipment; we build each one from the ground up, by hand, the old-fashioned way.
Our process represents who we are; distinctive and exclusive design, detailed and quality manufacturing, resulting in innovative, effective training equipment for baseball, softball, American football, soccer, volleyball, cricket and rugby.
Our goal is to be the worldwide leader in quality sports training equipment that enables athletes at all levels to reach their full potential and coaches to develop championship teams.
Product description
BaseHit Real Baseball Machine
The BaseHit pitches lite-balls up to 60 MPH, and real baseballs up to 45 MPH and includes an auto ball feeder.
Would you like to be a great hitter, have quick wrists, a keen eye, and a powerful swing? Well, now you can.
Introducing BaseHit, “The safest and most affordable real baseball pitching machine that makes you a great hitter at home or away.”
Simply open the box and snap three tubular steel legs into the tri-pod stand, attach BaseHit’s high-impact composite pitching housing with two quick-attach knobs. Connect the 12 ball auto ball feeder. Plug the power cord into an electrical outlet and in a matter of seconds, you’re ready to hit from your very own pitching machine!
Pitches baseballs, lite-baseballs, & plastic practice balls. Adjust the pitch height and BaseHit’s 6” wheel pitches the ball with pin-point accuracy, so hitting that perfect pitch has never been easier!
And BaseHit comes with a variable speed control, so you can hit pitches from speeds up to 45 MPH.
Key Specs:
• Model #: BH199 – With Ball Feeder
• Real Baseball and Lite-Ball Pitching Machine
• A/C Power
• Recommended Ages: 5 years to Adult
What You Get:
• 1 Poly Pitching Machine Baseball for perfect baseball accuracy
• Variable speed control & dual bearing electric motor pitches baseballs up to 45 mph.
• 6” Wheel cushions the balls and pitches consistent strikes every time
• Automatic Feeder delivers a ball every 10 seconds
• Rugged composite pitching machine housing to protect you from spinning wheel
• Adjustable pitch height knob to get the pitch height you want.
• Heavy-duty tubular steel tripod stand with pushpin legs for quick assembly
• Built-in machine harness attaches to Trend Sports home batting cages
- BACKED BY HEATER SPORTS - The BaseHit Is Backed By Heater Sports Fantastic Service and Will Take Care Of Any Replacement Parts Or Future Needs
User questions & answers
Question: | can u use real baseballs |
Answer: | Manual feed. |
Question: | can i use real baseballs |
Answer: | That's why my husband purchased it for our son. It's awkward to move, not heavy so we bought one of those folding wagons to carry all his baseball equipment to the field for practice. It's a great product! |
Question: | What is the difference between base hit and slider lite |
Answer: | The machine needs to be secured to the ground. After every pitch the machine will jerk/move if not secured properly. The slightest movement shifts the pitches. Sandbags or weights would be an alternative to the stakes. |
Question: | Can regular hardballs be used in this machine |
Answer: | Each ball is loaded one at a time. It's not designed to accept a stack. |
Product description
Baden's Ballistic Pitching Machine Softballs are specifically engineered for use in pitching machines and hitting practices. This high-quality training softball features genuine leather optic yellow cover for the most realistic look and feel on the market. While the balls dura-poly core provides long-lasting shape retention. The softballs red-and-blue stitching flat Kevlar seams increase durability and allow coaches and players to easily distinguish the Ballistic Softball from other practice balls. These softballs come in official size (12") and weight and are shipped by the (dozen).
- GENUINE - Optic yellow softball, leather cover for a true authentic look and feel
- SEAMS - Flat reinforced Kevlar seams add durability for long-lasting use in pitching machines and hitting drills
- RED and BLUE - Seams make it easy to identify which softballs are your pitching machine and practice softballs
- CORE - Duralock and rubber core which helps with shape retention and strengthens the softball
- SHIPS - By the dozen (12 softballs) Official size (12") and weight
User questions & answers
Question: | Will these go the same distance when hit as a regular .47/375 fastpitch softball |
Answer: | Yes we hit them in practice and they go the same distance as a regular 12 in ball |
Question: | Do these have a realistic bounce when you hit a ground ball? vs the very bouncy dimpled balls |
Answer: | Yes, these balls will have a more traditional more true bounce than a dimpled balls. Please let us know if you have any further questions. Thank you, Baden Sports Customer Service |
Question: | Do these have a realistic bounce when you hit a ground ball? vs the very bouncy dimpled balls |
Answer: | Yes, react just like game balls. We use them mostly for batting practice with jugs machine. Very durable! We ordered more due to this durability. |
Question: | Where is the product manufactured? Thanks |
Answer: | China |
Product description
Get batters ready for their next big game with this Bulldog Single-Wheel Baseball/Softball Combo Pitching Machine. Ideal for holding lengthy batting practices without wearing out pitchers, this pitching machine throws baseballs or softballs between 30 and 60 mph to simulate a variety of pitches, so your players can step into the batter's box and swing for the fences confidently. Set the pitching machine up in the perfect spot, as the lightweight design lets you move it around your practice area with ease.
- Speed: 30-60 mph. Lightweight design lets you move the pitching machine around with ease. Power Source- Electric
- Throws baseballs, 11'' and 12'' softballs
- Runs on 110 volt AC or generator 1/4 HP D.C. motor
- Durable urethane wheel eliminates air pressure issues
- Heavy duty legs are convertible for baseball or softball
User questions & answers
Question: | Does anyone know roughly the mph associated with each setting in the dial? I bought mine used, don't have an owners manual and can't seem to find one |
Answer: | Funcionará a 40 pies. |
Question: | IT will fit 11 inch and 12 inch dimpled balls |
Answer: | Yes you can use real softballs. The tires propelling the balls are pretty rough on real softballs, so i would sugest to use old softballs. Also: the flight pattern is better and cleaner with the original balls for the machine. |
Question: | does it use regular baseballs |
Answer: | YES |
Question: | What size generator should I get to run this machine? Watts |
Answer: | Yes they are |
- 7 second pitches: This electronic pitching machine for kids is a great way to encourage them to practice their batting skills. The ball pitches every 7 seconds for improved accuracy and precision on the field. Assembled height 7.75 x 9.5 x 9.875 inches
- Flashing indicator: A flashing red indicator light shows when the ball pitches, making it easy to prepare in your baseball stance. You get all the fun of a batting cage right in the comfort of your own backyard
- Height adjustment: The height of this baseball pitching machine is adjustable, making it a great option for developing young athletes. It’s perfect for practicing multiple batting angles and styles
- Six balls included: This batting machine includes six white aero strike balls. You should not use regulation baseballs or tee balls with this baseball machine – only use the balls included. The ball shoot can hold upto 9 balls
- Improve batting performance: Your child should ideally use a plastic baseball bat with this pitching machine. There’s no better kids baseball pitching machine to help them grow and improve as they practice
- Note: Kindly refer user manual and installation manual before use
User questions & answers
Question: | Do you have to hit with a whiffle bat or can you use a real/aluminum bat |
Answer: | My son, daughter, and myself have used a child's aluminum T-ball bat. I can swing full speed with jugs poly baseballs and no issues. Jugs Balls are more consistent than the ones it came with. Huge upgrade for small money. Other limited flight styles may work also. Only have tried jugs based on others reviews and recommendations. Glad I did!! https://www.amazon.com/Jugs-Poly-Baseballs-Dozen-White/dp/B00R8EWOZK/ref=pd_aw_sim_21_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=ZBCV9C1RHS5BE9G713RW |
Question: | Can you put baseballs in it |
Answer: | No real baseballs, just plastic ones. |
Question: | how fast does it go |
Answer: | About 30 to 40 mph from a distance of 25 to 30 feet. The balls that come with it, or are recommended for it, are junk, however it works great if you buy JUGGS plastic balls. I've had one in my basement for several years hitting JUGGS balls with wood bats and love it. The balls break occasionally after a long period of time but can really take a beating. I set-up the machine on stacked crates so that the machine is at shoulder height thus replicating a very inexpensive indoor pitching machine. If you buy good balls they will be delivered consistently in the strike zone. The best money I've spent for practicing baseball in the winter. |
Question: | I need something like this for my dog, I say need because my shoulder/arm can't take much more. Will this work or any other suggestions |
Answer: | My dog loves it but he only brings the balls back...hasnt grasped the concept of putting then back in the basket yet. It didn't launch very far but I put it on a chair to add height. Someone suggested I buy wiffle balls (I bought a neon green set from Amazon)... they worked great. |
Product description
"
Help your child become a better batter or improve their catching skills with these confidence-building baseball pitching machines from Sports Games!
Whether you’re training that next Major Leaguer in your backyard or you just want your softball pro to have more confidence in the upcoming season, nothing is more fun than learning how to hit and field better than with a Sports Games Baseball Pitching Machine.
Our automatic baseball throwing system helps kids better develop visual processing, concentration, and hand-eye coordination that's required for players, which is perfect for building confidence and skills in young players.
It also features a 7-second delay to allow for batting adjustments and better focus and preparation for the next ball. More importantly, it promotes parent-child interactions, and lets children work together with one another to build vital social and physical skills.
Product Details:
- Practice Swinging and Catching
- Slow-Pitch Safety and Learning
- Outdoor Recommended
- Easy to Set Up and Play
- Supports Youth Players (Boys and Girls)
- Recommended Ages 4 and Up
- Meets ASTM 963 Toy Standards
- Requires Four D Batteries (Not Included)
Order Includes:
- Electronic Pitching Machine
- 12 White Plastic Baseballs
- Plastic Baseball Bag
- ELECTRONIC PITCHING MACHINE – Designed to hold multiple balls and throw them to you automatically, our pitching machine lets get 12 swings in for better, more consistent practice.
- GREAT FOR BATTING AND CATCHING PRACTICE – These baseball pitching machines can help kid’s practice regularly, improving hand-eye coordination, batting confidence, or catching!
- ADJUSTBLE PITCH HEIGHT – A smarter pitch machine design lets you adjust the height of balls leaving the system to work on pop flies, grounders, or standard base throws.
- BAT AND 12 BALLS INCLUDED – Each Sports Games youth set also includes 12 white plastic baseballs and a red, lightweight plastic bat to help get your young boy or girl started.
- KID-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR FUN – Crafted with safe, heavy-duty materials that are perfect for regular play, our kid’s pitching machine is strong, well-balanced, and great for ages 4 and up.
Inspire your kid’s love of the greatest pastime and improve their baseball swing in the process with this fun, electronic pitching machine from Sports Games.
"User questions & answers
Question: | How fast and far out do the balls come out |
Answer: | For an 2 an 3 year old it be fine i bought for my grandson practice ball an catching it just plastic doesnt go far an doesnt come out hard |
Question: | Can you put regular baseballs in this |
Answer: | No you can not use regular baseballs, only the ones that come with it. |
Question: | Can you purchase extra balls |
Answer: | Yes I did a pack of 5 |
Question: | Does it work for young cricketers too? thx |
Answer: | It better for learning to catch not really hitting the ball |
Product description
Works on both the offensive and defensive aspects of your game with the Catapult. Use regulation baseballs for soft toss or to practice footwork and glove-hand ball transfer. Or use 9" plastic balls for pop fly practice. The unit adjusts for height and distance and serves balls every 8 seconds.
From the Manufacturer
- Works on both the offensive and defensive aspects of the game
- Builds visual acuity and hitting accuracy
- Automatically tosses regulation baseballs and practice balls every 8 seconds
- Adjustable height and distance.Material: Polypropylene, ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), Steel
- Powered by AC adapter or batteries (batteries not included)
User questions & answers
Question: | Do you think this would toss the 3" tennis balls that I use in my dogs chuck-it? I'd like to modify it so he can put the balls into it himself |
Answer: | We do use real softballs. The wheels need cleaned each year after. You would have to move it closer to get it to 60 on all pitches. |
Question: | Which balls would you recommend for pop flys, fielding practice |
Answer: | it depends on the condition of the ball. With newer softballs it is very accurate and easy to dial in a pitch like a curve ball that breaks left 8 inches at 16 inches above the plate on the outside corner. I bought 5 doz juggs balls and those 60 all pitch the same |
Question: | How loud is it when the motor is running |
Answer: | This machine does not use a battery. This is the best pitching machine we have ever purchased. It came highly recommend to us and we could not be more happy with it. |
Question: | Baseballs stuck behind catapult. how do i get them out |
Answer: | The arch and speed are adjustable, the head pivots up and down with an adjustable know, so you can adjust the pitch just about any way you like |
Product features
SKLZ Catapult Soft Toss Baseball Batting and Fielding Trainer
Works on both the offensive and defensive aspects of your game with the Catapult. Use regulation baseballs for soft toss or to practice footwork and glove-hand ball transfer. Or use 9" plastic balls for pop fly practice. The unit adjusts for height and distance and serves balls every 8 seconds.
SKLZ
SKLZ provides multisport athletic performance and skill development products for use at home and in training environments. SKLZ family of products includes exercise, fitness, and agility tools, and training equipment for soccer, football, basketball, baseball, and golf.
Product description
Gamemaster 200160111 Louisville Ultimate Pitching Machine (EA)
![]() The UPM is sturdy, portable, and requires no electricity. |
The Louisville Slugger UPM45 is the ultimate training aid that pitches reliably and consistently for batter after batter allowing the hitter to concentrate on developing a proper level swing path to the ball. The UPM45 is more than just a pitching machine, though--it also throws accurate fly-balls and hard ground balls consistently to incorporate into your drills and eliminate the need for hitting the ball during drills.
The Louisville Slugger UPM 45 Blue Flame Pitching Machine throws real baseballs and softballs between 18 and 45 miles per hour and soft, lightweight balls up to 60 miles per hour. This machine has been authorized for use by teams in the majority of youth leagues in America including Babe Ruth Baseball and Softball, the Cal Ripken Division of Babe Ruth Baseball,
![]() The UPM allows hitters to work on specific locations and sharpen muscle memory without turning the coach's arm to jelly. |
For coaches and team managers, the UPM solves any number of problems. There's no need to use special pitching machine balls - it won't rip or tear leather or synthetic ball covers.
Features:
- Portable and lightweight at only 25 pounds
- Mechanical pitching machine perfect for throwing accurate pitches, infield drills, and outfield drills
- No batteries or electricity required
- Throws regulation baseballs and fastpitch softballs up to 45 miles per hour
- Throws lightweight practice baseballs and softballs up to 60 miles per hour
- Throws slowpitch softballs with up to a 12-foot arch
- Throws accurate fly balls and hard ground balls
- Throws any type of ball, hard balls, fast pitch softballs, dimple balls, light flight, plastic and even soccer and volleyballs
- Throws hard balls from 18 to 45 mph with easy to adjust speed controls. And throws light flight and plastic balls up to 60 mph; Throws slowpitch softballs with up to a 12 inches arch
- Throws a level pitch to help teach proper swing mechanics. Extremely accurate for throwing strikes, fly balls and even grounders.
- The official pitching machine of both Babe Ruth League and Pony Baseball and Softball
- It is completely manual, needs no electricity or batteries and is light weight and easy to move from field to field, weighs less than 25 lbs.
- Great to set up to use for a variety of drills
User questions & answers
Question: | Can stacks be purchased separately |
Answer: | No it’s not. |
Question: | Can I trade it in mine is brand new and never used it just a hand full of times to see how good it worked |
Answer: | Heavy plastic. Has been perfect for my three year old grandson. |
Question: | Can this be folded in half for easy storage |
Answer: | The glove is kind of cheap |
Question: | how does it run? Can it throw a few balls on its own or does someone have to stand there and push a button |
Answer: | I dont know imsorry |
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