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Balls for Pitching Machines
The baseball you choose for your pitching machine can greatly impact its longevity and the quality of batting practice. If you already have a pitching machine, buy and use pitching machine baseballs that your machine is designed to pitch.
To clarify the differences, we created this pitching machine ball guide with the pros and cons of different pitching machine baseballs and softballs so that you can make an informed purchase.
Get More Performance Out of Your Pitching Machine
Some of our customers report that their pitching machine is not as accurate or fast as advertised. After investigating, we found that they only needed to use the correct type of ball.
Using pitching machine‑rated balls, whether dimpled or leather, will give you more consistency and faster speeds out of the machine.
Get More Longevity out of Your Pitching Machine
Using the wrong type of ball can damage your pitching machine and shorten its lifespan, particularly in lower‑cost, one‑wheel machines sensitive to the type of ball used.
Regular baseballs, even with high‑quality machines, can mark and damage the pitching machine wheels over time, as well as the baseball itself. This holds for both baseballs and softball pitching machines.
Benefits of Pitching Machine Baseballs and Softballs
- Improves accuracy and strike consistency
- Achieves faster pitch speeds
- Reduces wear and tear on the machine
- Increases the longevity and lifespan of the machine
- Enhances overall efficiency of batting practice
Dimpled Balls For Pitching Machines
Dimpled pitching machine balls are named for their uniform dimple pattern, making them more accurate and consistent than other balls. They are specifically designed for various pitching machines and resemble enlarged golf balls more than traditional baseballs.
Due to their unique design, dimpled balls increase the longevity of your pitching machine and improve the quality of batting practice.
Pros of Dimpled Baseballs for Pitching Machines:
- Uniform design suited for pitching machines
- Does not damage the pitching machine wheels
- Consistent pitch location and velocity
- Works with baseball and softball pitching machines
- Durable and long‑lasting
- Will not dent aluminum bats
Cons of Dimpled Balls:
- Less realistic feel than regulation baseballs
- Does not produce the same sound or feel when hit
- Harder to throw breaking balls and pitches
Recommended Dimpled Pitching Machine Balls
Aero Flight Pitching Machine Baseballs
The Aero Flight Pitching Machine baseball features 9" dimples to reduce wind resistance, enabling consistent flight paths during practice. It is also extremely durable and ideal for all pitching machines.
- Made to last with excellent quality
- Bright yellow color for high visibility
- One-year manufacturer's warranty
- Works with any baseball pitching machine
- FREE shipping
Heater Sports 12" Dimpled Softball Pitching Machine Balls
Designed specifically for the Heater Sports Pitching machine, these 12" dimpled softballs ensure consistency and accuracy. Made from durable polyurethane, these balls withstand repeated practice and won't damage bats.
- Durable polyurethane construction
- Compatible with any softball pitching machine
- One-year manufacturer's warranty
- Dimpled design for consistent strikes
- Available in an 11" softball option
Pitching Machine Baseballs (Low Profile Seams)
Leather pitching machine baseballs resemble regulation baseballs but have low‑profile seams to reduce wear on your machine. They provide a feel closer to real game scenarios.
Pros of Pitching Machine Baseballs:
- Realistic feel similar to regulation baseball
- Low seam design reduces wheel damage
- Suitable for throwing breaking balls
Cons of Pitching Machine Baseballs:
- Less consistent pitch location and speed
- Higher price point
Recommended Pitching Machine Balls
Sports Attack Kevlar Pitching Machine Balls
The Sports Attack Kelver 9" baseballs are built for durability with reinforced seams and a cork center, helping maintain performance even during high‑speed practices.
- Leather with low‑profile seams for longevity
- Kevlar stitching
- Compatible with most baseball pitching machines
Heater Sports Leather Balls for Baseball Pitching Machines
Best suited for Heater baseball, Deuce, and combo pitching machines, these 100% full‑grain leather balls offer durability and enhanced contact quality during practice sessions.
- Durable Kevlar seams
- Realistic feel and game simulation
- One-year manufacturer's warranty
Maximizing Your Practice Quality
To get the most from your batting practice sessions, consider how different ball types affect both skill development and machine performance. Dimpled balls provide consistency and machine protection, while leather options offer a more realistic game simulation.
Training Applications
Different ball types serve various training purposes:
- High‑velocity practice for advanced hitters
- Consistent location practice for beginners
- Game‑like scenarios with leather options
- Extended durability for team and facility use
Final Words
Consistency in your pitching machine ball choice will extend the lifespan of your machine and improve batting practice outcomes. Avoid mixing different ball types to reduce wear and enhance machine performance. Shop at Anytime Baseball Supply today.
Frequently Asked Question
Dimpled balls are ideal for youth players as they provide consistent pitches at controlled speeds, reducing the fear factor. Their durability withstands extended practice sessions, and they won't damage aluminum bats commonly used by developing players.
For team practices, we recommend at least two dozen balls to maintain continuous batting practice. This quantity allows for rotation between batters and prevents excessive wear on individual balls while minimizing interruptions during practice sessions.
Yes, our pitching machine balls are compatible across different brands like Jugs, Heater Sports, and Sports Attack. However, check manufacturer specifications for optimal performance, particularly with specialized machines that recommend specific ball types.
With proper rotation and care, quality pitching machine balls typically last 3-6 months with regular use. Dimpled options generally outlast leather ones, making them more cost-effective for facilities and teams with frequent batting practice sessions.
Yes, we provide special pricing for academies, schools, and travel teams purchasing pitching machine balls in bulk. Contact our customer service team to discuss volume discounts, team packages, and potential free shipping on larger orders.
