Repetition, pinpoint accuracy, total control of speed, mastery of pitch type—these are areas coaches often struggle with when throwing batting practice. Players take their cage time seriously, so why settle for only 75-80% of pitches being hittable?

Baseball players improve through repetition in the cage, getting pitch after pitch, day after day. Atec pitching machines make batting practice more efficient, which benefits both players and coaches—and can help your BP coach avoid Tommy John surgery.

Atec (Athletic Training Equipment Company) is based in Sparks, Nevada. It manufactures pitching machines and accessories to elevate your team’s practice. Atec is part of Amer Sports, which also owns Wilson, DeMarini, and Louisville Slugger.

Types of Atec Pitching Machines

Atec pitching machines are designed for professional-level training, and high-quality durability comes at a cost. But compared to other pro-level machines, the prices are comparable, and sometimes even less expensive. Here are four models to consider:

M3 Baseball Pitching Machine (MLB Level)

The M3 pitching machine is Atec’s top-tier model, built for professional-level players. Its 3-wheel design provides total ball visibility and improved surface contact, resulting in accurate pitches up to 105mph. It can deliver fastballs, curveballs, sliders, splitters, and knuckleballs. It works with leather, dimple, and foam balls, and comes with a 5-year warranty. It’s the Official Machine of Major League Baseball.

M2 Baseball Pitching Machine (Collegiate Level)

The M2 baseball pitching machine is designed for collegiate-level players. It has a 2-wheel design, can reach speeds up to 90mph, and throws fastballs, curveballs, and sliders. Many top college programs use the M2. Like the M3, it works with various ball types.

M1 Baseball Pitching Machine (Travel League up to ~15 years old)

The M1 baseball pitching machine is Atec’s entry-level model. It’s a 1-wheel design, throwing fastballs and right/left-handed curveballs from 30-70mph. This machine is perfect for travel ball up to about 15 years old. Beyond that, it may not offer the speed required by advanced players. However, you can move it closer to home plate to simulate higher pitch speeds. It works with leather, dimple, and foam balls.

R3 and R2 Baseball Training Machines (Infield-Outfield Drills)

Though focused on pitching machines, we can’t ignore Atec’s R3 and R2 training machines for defense. They simulate grounders, line drives, fly balls, and pop flies with quick recovery times. These devices are perfect for pro and college programs to improve defensive practice efficiency, freeing coaches from fungo duty and allowing them to focus on instruction.

Pitching Machine Balls

Atec recommends using their specialized balls to maximize the machine’s efficiency:

• Hi.Per Pro Leather Flat Seam Baseballs: High-quality leather, low-profile Kevlar seams for durability and accuracy.
• Hi.Per X-Axt Dimple Baseballs: Anti-sting material, safe for all bats, regulation weight and size.

Buying an Atec Pitching Machine

Atec machines are available at large retailers and directly from Atec’s website. You might find better prices through resellers or even used machines on eBay. Many parts are replaceable, so a partially functioning machine could be repaired. With Atec’s machines, you can elevate your training sessions and give players the repetition and accuracy they need to improve.