How to Buy the Best Pitching Machine in 2024

A quality pitching machine is one of the best investments a batting cage owner can make — and one of the most confusing purchases. With dozens of models at wildly different price points, how do you choose? Here's a complete buyer's guide for 2024.

Step 1: Know Your Player's Level

The biggest mistake is buying a machine for your player's current level instead of where they'll be in 3 years. Machines are a long-term investment. For a 10-year-old playing travel ball, think ahead to age 13-14 and buy accordingly.

• Ages 5–10: Arm-speed machines or compressed air (25–50 mph)
• Ages 11–14: Single or dual-wheel machines (30–80 mph)
• Ages 15+: Dual or 3-wheel machines (40–100+ mph)

Step 2: Choose Your Machine Type

1-Wheel Machines

Simplest and most affordable. Throws fastballs well but limited pitch variety. Good for: Youth training, budget buyers. Examples: ATEC Casey, Jugs Jr.

2-Wheel Machines

More versatile — can throw breaking balls by adjusting wheel speeds independently. Good for: Intermediate players who want pitch variety. Examples: ATEC M1, Jugs MVP.

3-Wheel Machines

The professional standard. Accurate, consistent, and can throw any pitch type. Good for: Serious hitters, cage owners who rent. Examples: Hack Attack, Sports Attack Junior.

Arm-Style Machines

Simulates real pitching motion for better timing practice. Good for: Players working on timing and rhythm. Examples: Iron Mike MP-6.

Step 3: Budget Accordingly

• $300–$800: Entry-level, single-wheel machines. Youth use only.
• $800–$2,000: Mid-range dual-wheel machines. Good for most families.
• $2,000–$4,500: Professional 3-wheel machines (Hack Attack). Best investment long-term.

Step 4: Check Ball Compatibility

Most machines are compatible with either real baseballs or dimpled pitching machine balls — not both. Confirm compatibility before purchase. Dimpled ball machines are cheaper but require a separate ball inventory.

Step 5: Consider Portability

If you need to move the machine in and out of the cage, check the weight and wheel size. The Hack Attack weighs 115 lbs with a wheel kit — manageable for two people.

Top Picks for 2024

• Best overall: Hack Attack ($3,500) — the industry standard for serious use
• Best mid-range: ATEC M2 ($1,800) — versatile and reliable
• Best youth: ATEC Casey ($900) — durable, easy to use
• Best for timing work: Iron Mike MP-6 ($2,500) — nothing simulates pitchers better

Final Thoughts

Buy for the long term. A quality pitching machine used on a cage listed on CageList pays for itself quickly in rental income — renters specifically seek out cages with quality machines.