Pitching Machine Safety

Because pitching machines have moving parts, it's important they be used with adult supervision, especially when players as young as 6 are involved. When assembling the machine, follow instructions closely to ensure it will operate safely. Follow the operating instructions that are included with your pitching machine product.

Be Careful When Using Your Machine The most important pitching machine safety tip is to never use it near water or in a high-moisture environment. Treat the machine as you would any device that uses electricity. Never use the machine outdoors during or after rain. Whenever the pitching machine is plugged in, avoid placing any body part on or near any portion of the pitching wheel, and don't stand in front of the machine while it's connected to a power source. While it is operating, keep hands clear of all moving parts.

Make sure all batters - softball as well as baseball - wear protective head gear. A helmet with a face guard is preferred. Wait until the batter is squarely in position before turning on the machine. Turn off the machine when collecting balls and replacing them into the feeder.

Is Your Machine in Good Condition?
Before starting each batting practice session, check the machine's working parts. Is the pitching wheel tight? If not, tighten it with an Allen wrench. Make sure all nuts and bolts are tight as well.

A pitching screen should be placed in front of the machine to protect both the machine and the person feeding balls into it. Once the screen is in place, you can plug the machine in and turn it. If used in a batting cage, only one batter should be inside while the machine is operating.

Before the tilt angle of the pitching head is changed, make sure the machine is off and the pitching wheel has stopped spinning. Let the wheel stop on its own after the power has been turned off. Manually trying to stop it could result in injury or damage to the wheel.

Never operate a pitching machine at excessive speeds, because it could lead to serious injury or even death. Speeds should be selected to match the batter's ability level. Keep in mind that the closer the pitching machine is to the batter, the faster the pitch will arrive. For example, a 60 mph pitch from 40 feet is the equivalent to a 90 mph pitch from 60 feet.