We use our pitching machines for our Bantam Softball and Rookie Baseball (machine pitch) leagues. We will keep the machines stored in the towers of each field to be used for practice and games.
PRACTICE POLICIES FOR THE PITCHING MACHINES
Use the Machine that is designated for Practice only during Practice.
Only adjust the machine using the adjustable screw where the ball is placed. Do not adjust where the levers are located.
We test each machine to be accurate for each field.
RETURN THE MACHINES back to the tower after every practice unless there is a team immediately after your practice that will use the machine.
The towers have a keyless access code lock where the code will be issued at the coaches meetings. You can contact the GM if you need the code.
Report to the General Manager if the machine is not operating properly.
GAME POLICIES FOR THE PITCHING MACHINES
The game machine will be set up for you by the grounds crew prior to game time. They will test the machine each time to make sure it is working properly. We also test the velocity of the machine to conform with the current rules.
Again, only use the small adjustment screw to make any adjustments during the game.
The Home team for the last game of the night is responsible for returning the Pitching Machine to the tower when the game is over.
See game rules for more details concerning the machine.
USING THE PITCHING MACHINE
Be consistent when delivering the ball including how the ball is placed on the machine. It is suggested to place the ball to create a 4 seem rotation for a more true delivery.
Make sure you keep your foot down on the pedal when pulling back the lever.
Don't jerk the lever back...be smooth and be consistent.
Don't pull the lever all the way back, just enough to release the ball.
The screw adjustment will adjust the height.
It should not be moving left or right. If it does, let the office know but that can be easily adjusted by moving the back footing.
It is recommended that the coach pre-set the ball on the machine as the catcher is returning the ball to the pitcher to speed up the time between pitches.
If it does start to move to the left or right, make the adjustment and then make sure the knob on the front footing is tight.
KEEP THE PLAYERS AWAY FROM THE MACHINE. Don't let them operate the machine and keep them clear from the front of the machine. With the moving levers it is best to not let them touch the machine.
The goal is to throw a high percentage of strikes but it really is not best for the hitter to have 100% strikes or 100% of the pitches in the same place.
You can also have the hitter move up or back in the box if she/he is taller or shorter.
It is best, ideally, to have the coach that is going to feed the machine during the games also be the coach that feeds the machine during practice. It does take some practice to be good at it. Most issues are user error. Most, not all.
Here is a pretty good video with instructions for using the Sling.
We will supply each team with the following Equipment: Teeball, Peewee BB & SB Batting Tee 6 Practice balls Rookie BB & Bantam SB 6 Practice Balls Catching Helmet/Mask, Chest Protector, Shin Guards Junior BB & SB | Intermediate BB & SB | Senior BB 6 ...
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