Junior Hack Attack Pitching Machine Safety Guidelines & Checklists
MSBL has made a meaningful financial investment in our travel program through the purchase of Junior Hack Attack Pitching Machines.
To ensure these machines remain safe, reliable, and available, we ask that every user operate them with care and responsibility. Use of the machines by travel teams is considered a privilege, and continued access is dependent on proper use and adherence to league guidelines. Misuse may result in the loss of this privilege, and potentially removal from the travel program as a volunteer.
Instructional Videos (Required Watching)
Baseball Videos
Softball Videos
AUTHORIZED USE: Travel teams only. Only approved travel volunteer coaches may operate the machine after receiving trainings and reviewing this manual. Players may not touch or adjust the machine.
BATTING CAGE ONLY: In order to protect MSBL’s significant investment, the Pitching Machines may only be used in the Batting Cages. This prevents damage to the wheels be dirt.
STORAGE OF MACHINE: The pitching machines, bucket of approved baseball/softballs and extension cords, are stored in the batting cage bathroom closet opposite the batting cage entrance. The access code will be periodically changed and shared only with travel team managers.
TRANSPORTING MACHINE: Two adults are required to set up the machine. Be sure to watch the videos above. Ensure the frame lock is in place and secure before moving the machine. The machine rolls from the rear on the two wheels with the extended back leg as the handle. The Two front legs are removed.
SETUP LOCATION: Aligned Pitching Machine evenly with the red-and-white striped pole. (See picture)
POWER SOURCE: Plug machine only into the outlet at the back of the batting cage. Keep cord dry and clear of walkways. To turn on the outlet, pull the knob at the entrance of the batting cage.
OPERATION SAFETY: Coach must remain behind protective screen while machine is in use. Use only the provided baseballs/softballs only. Feed balls one at a time.
NEVER:
- ...adjust the machine with batter in batter's box
- ...reach into the wheels while plugged in
- ...use wet balls
- ...allow players to feed balls into the machine
PLAYER SAFETY: Batter must wear helmet. Only one batter in cage at a time.
SHUTDOWN: Turn power off and unplug before adjustments or when finished. Stop immediately if malfunction occurs. Visually confirm wheels are stopped and remove remaining balls before leaving area.
SETTING PITCH SPEED
Speed settings are approximate. Always throw test pitches before a batter enters the cage.
The three knobs on the back of the machine set the desired pitch speed.
For a fastball, the Left and Right knobs must be the same speed with the Bottom knob set higher to create the required backspin.
MSBL has measured the speed of the machine from the required located designated by the red and white marking.
Baseball Pitching Speed Table
| Approximate Pitch Speed | Left Knob | Right Knob | Bottom Knob |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35 mph | 2 | 2 | 8 |
| 40 mph | 2 | 2 | 9 |
| 45 mph | 3 | 3 | 9 |
| 50 mph | 4 | 4 | 9 |
| 55 mph | 5 | 5 | 9 |
| 60 mph | 6 | 6 | 9 |
Softball Pitching Speed Table
| Approximate Pitch Speed | Left Knob | Right Knob | Bottom Knob |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 mph | 2 | 2 | 8 |
| 35 mph | 3 | 3 | 8 |
| 40 mph | 4 | 4 | 9 |
| 45 mph | 5 | 5 | 9 |
| 50 mph | 6 | 6 | 9 |
| 55 mph | 7 | 7 | 9 |
| 60 mph | 8 | 8 | 9 |