The controversy surrounding what type of pitching machine ball to use when taking hitting practice has been around for years. Coated baseballs, also called pitching machine balls or dimple balls, are often thought of in a adverse manner with the argument that they do not provide the same feel as a real baseball when struck by the bat. In my opinion the balls used in pitching machines are excellent for their durability, longevity, cost benefit and the fact that they do not scuff and pick up moisture like real baseballs so the flight from the machine is much truer leading to better pitches and more consistent swings during batting practice. This article discusses each of these topics in great detail.

Color - When swinging in the batting cage the color of the pitching machine ball becomes very important. As you work to train your hitting eye a yellow ball is easier to pick up than a white ball. The yellow color is designed to provide the most clear view of the ballin several different lighting conditions.

Durability - It is important to keep in mind the durability of a baseball. A standard baseball is made for game use. With consistent use will pick up moisture, scuffs and wear out very quickly. The design of a pitching machine baseball, with a plastic outer coating, will last much longer. You should expect the pitching machine baseball to last at least 2 to 3 years. That is a lot hits, long drives, and home runs. The design of the pitching machine ball adds to its strength. Because of their plastic outer coating, pitching machine balls are designed to not attract moisture. A traditional baseball will absorb wetness from many sources. It can come from either a wet or damp field, overnight rain or even the morning dew. Over time, the regular baseball begins to add weight from the moisture and can become very heavy. If a wet or heavy ball is used in a pitching machine the pitches can become unpredictable. When that happens the act of taking batting practice can actually become dangerous. A lot of wild pitches are sure to follow. Take comfort in knowing that you will get a consistent pitch every time with the use if regular pitching machine baseballs.

Like New Quality - The high quality of the pitching machine ball makes the balls very easy to clean. You don't have to worry about getting them wet. The pitching machine balls will easily clean using water and a mild cleaning detergent. I have had good luck simply wiping them dry after each use. This simple task, much like a golfer wipes their clubs clean after each use, helps to keep the color bright and the balls in great shape to last to their full life expectancy of 2-3 years.

Lower Cost - While the initial cost of a set of balls for batting cages may be slightly higher than regular baseballs, the long-term cost of pitching machine baseballs are lower. As the cost of baseball equipment rises, a standard baseball is no exception. Expect to pay about $60 for a box of baseballs. With non stop training you will probably need to replace the balls about twice a year. The easy solution is to switch to pitching machine baseballs. The cost with the pitching machine baseballs is very close to the same as regular baseballs, with the cost of the pitching machine balls being about $72 for 24 balls. The real savings comes from the fact that the pitching machine balls should last about 2 - 3 years.

It does not take a hitters eye to see that the right choice is to use pitching machine baseballs with your pitching machine. If you are preparing for the upcoming baseball season or if you are in mid-season form getting ready for the play off run, fire up the pitching machine, it is time to Play Ball!