1. Batting practice in batting cages took a new twist in 1897, when an Ivy League professor invented the very first pitching machine. The math teacher's creation threw baseballs with the power of gunpowder, and even offered up breaking balls for the Princeton college team. Batting cages and pitching machines have gone hand in hand ever since.
2. Players and teams can get the most out of batting cage practice with the help of pitching machines. Pitching machines enhance time in the cage by offering either consistency or variety with machine precision. The best machines can throw breaking balls and hit high speeds; combo pitching machines can be adapted for either baseball or softball players.
3. Time in the batting cage should theoretically result in a smoother swing. However, batting practice pitchers may unintentionally lob the ball, which may cause players to swing upward to hit it - then bad habits result. Using a pitching machine can give you a true trajectory, so your time in the batting cage is spent practicing the correct technique.
4. Batting cage practice prepares players for game conditions, and the right pitching machine can help too. Many pitching machines offer a variety of speeds and several different pitches, making practice in the batting cage seem like the real thing. There are pitching machines available that can throw several breaking balls, change-ups, and wicked heat; you'll have seen it all by the time you leave the cage.
5. Baseball and softball programs often share batting cages. They can share pitching machines, too. Combo pitching machines can be adjusted to the ball sizes and pitching styles of each sport, often without leaving the batting cage. The change usually takes just a few minutes.
6. Softball teams and players benefit from time in the batting cages as much as baseball players do. Pitching machines for softball players should replicate the distinctive underhanded pitching style and trademark pitches of softball, including risers and drops. Many softball pitching machines can throw both 11- and 12-inch softballs.
7. Teams of high-school ability or above will get the most out of batting cage sessions by using a pitching machine that offers several pitches and a formidable fastball of 90 mph or more. The best pitching machines - often multiple-wheel models with more than one motor - will imitate both right- and left-handed pitches. A pitching machine is even more beneficial if it can be easily moved.
8. Sometimes all it takes to hone your swing is a little time in the batting cage with a soft-toss machine. Beginning hitters will thrive with the consistency of delivery and tempo, and everyone can use a hand-eye refresher. Soft-toss machines should be manageable enough to be moved in and out of the batting cage as needed.
9. If you're looking for a game-accurate trajectory in the batting-cage, try an arm-action pitching machine. The machine simulates an overhand movement, giving the hitter a realistic pitch.
10. Circular wheel pitching machines are ideal training tools for batting cage drills. These machines can use up to three wheels and can eject the ball at various speeds with different degrees of spin.
Batting cages and pitching machines go together like Babe Ruth and home runs. Find info on maximizing your swing with both in our Batter Up articles.
