Best Soft Toss Machines of 2025

A reliable soft toss machine is an invaluable asset for any baseball or softball player. They provide a steady, repeatable pitch, allowing you to focus purely on your technique, timing, and power development. From portable, foot-operated models perfect for the backyard to more robust automatic feeders designed for serious training, the market offers a diverse range to suit every need and budget. This guide will walk you through the top soft toss machines available, helping you find the ideal companion for elevating your game.

1. Franklin Sports Youth Pitching Machine

• Ball Type: Plastic baseballs (6 included)
• Adjustability: Adjustable launch angles for hitting or fielding
• Ball Feeder Capacity: Holds up to 9 balls
• Power Source: 4 “C” batteries (not included)

The Franklin Sports Youth Pitching Machine is designed to be the perfect entry-level tool for young baseball enthusiasts, offering a simple yet effective way to get hours of practice. This machine excels in versatility for its target audience, allowing for easy adjustment of the launch angle. This feature means aspiring players can practice a variety of skills, from hitting soft tosses and mastering their swing to working on fielding drills by converting pitches into ground balls or pop flies. It’s a comprehensive training aid that can significantly boost a child’s overall baseball proficiency, making practice enjoyable and productive.

With its automatic ball feeder that pitches a ball every 7 seconds, children can enjoy extended practice sessions without constant reloading or needing a parent to manually toss balls. The machine comes with six compatible plastic baseballs, ensuring they can start playing right out of the box (once batteries are inserted). Its user-friendly design makes it accessible for kids to operate independently, fostering a sense of self-reliance in their training. While it requires 4 “C” batteries, its focus on adjustability and ease of use makes it an excellent foundation for building fundamental baseball skills in a fun, engaging environment, perfect for backyard play.

• Pros:
  • Great for young players
  • Adjustable angles for hitting and fielding
  • Includes 6 plastic baseballs
  • Automatic pitching every 7 seconds
• Cons:
  • Requires 4 “C” batteries
  • Only compatible with plastic balls
  • May lack power for older players
  • Capacity limited to 9 balls

View at Amazon

2. Furlihong 691BH Foot-Operated Toss Machine

• Sport Compatibility: Baseball and Softball (2-in-1)
• Speed Levels: 4 adjustable gears (2 for baseball, 2 for softball)
• Power Source: Foot-operated, no electricity or batteries needed
• Included Accessories: 2 ball chutes, 1 PU baseball, 1 PU softball

The Furlihong 691BH stands out as an incredibly versatile and convenient soft toss machine, primarily due to its innovative foot-operated design that requires no external power source. This makes it an ideal choice for practice sessions anywhere, from the backyard to the park, without worrying about outlets or battery life. Its 2-in-1 design is a major advantage, catering to both baseball and softball players of varying skill levels. With four adjustable gear levels, users can precisely tailor the toss to their specific training needs; lower levels are optimized for baseball, while higher levels provide the ideal trajectory for softball.

The intuitive operation of simply stepping on a red pedal to launch a ball after about 5 seconds ensures a consistent and controlled pitch, allowing players to concentrate fully on their batting mechanics and timing. The inclusion of two ball chutes, a PU baseball, and a PU softball right out of the box means users have everything they need for immediate and extended practice. This robust, self-sufficient machine is perfect for solo training or team drills, offering a durable and reliable solution for youth and adult players alike to significantly improve their batting skills through consistent, repeated practice.

• Pros:
  • No power or batteries needed
  • Versatile for both baseball and softball
  • 4 adjustable speed levels
  • Complete set with balls and chutes
• Cons:
  • Manual foot operation required
  • 5-second delay per pitch
  • PU balls may not simulate real ball feel
  • Requires full pedal press for function

View at Amazon

3. Heater Sports Scorpion Soft Toss Machine

• Construction: Durable steel stand
• Ball Feeder Capacity: Up to 12 balls
• Pitch Interval: Every 8 seconds
• Power Options: AC adapter (included) or Crusher 8-Hour Rechargeable Battery (not included)

The Heater Sports Scorpion Soft Toss machine is engineered for precision and durability, making it an excellent choice for players of all ages looking to perfect their swing. Its robust steel stand ensures exceptional stability, capable of withstanding rigorous training sessions without showing signs of wear. The machine’s design prioritizes accuracy, featuring a metal extension that consistently directs each toss, guaranteeing a reliable trajectory every 8 seconds. This consistency is crucial for building muscle memory and developing precise batting skills, allowing players to focus solely on their timing and contact point rather than anticipating an inconsistent pitch.

One of the standout features is its automatic ball feeder, which can hold up to 12 balls, significantly extending playtime and minimizing interruptions for reloading. This allows for continuous practice and helps users get the most out of every training session, making it highly efficient. Furthermore, the Scorpion offers flexible power options, operating either with the included AC adapter or a separate rechargeable battery, enhancing its portability for practice anywhere, from the backyard to the batting cage. This blend of sturdy construction, reliable accuracy, and convenient features makes it a valuable asset for any serious player.

• Pros:
  • Durable steel construction
  • Consistent and accurate throws
  • Automatic ball feeder (12 balls)
  • Flexible AC or battery power options
• Cons:
  • Rechargeable battery sold separately
  • May be heavier than other portable options
  • Fixed pitch interval may not suit all training
  • Specific ball type requirement not specified

View at Amazon

4. Furlihong 898BH Angle Adjustable Toss Machine

• Power Source: Foot-operated, no electricity or batteries needed
• Angle Adjustment: 3 adjustable angles via rear switch
• Ball Compatibility: Works with regulation baseballs
• Mechanism: Mechanical, circuit-free design

The Furlihong 898BH Baseball Soft Toss Machine offers a robust and power-independent solution for baseball training, emphasizing durability and simplicity. Its entirely mechanical, circuit-free design means it’s built to last through countless seasons, eliminating common electronic failures and the need for batteries or power outlets. This foot-operated system requires users to step on and release a paddle, and after a 6-second delay, a regulation baseball is launched, providing a consistent and predictable toss. This manual yet reliable operation makes it perfectly suited for practice in any location, without the constraints of power availability, fostering genuine player engagement.

A significant advantage of the 898BH is its angle adjustability, offering three distinct launch angles easily controlled by a rear switch. This feature caters to players of all ages and skill levels, enabling them to customize their practice for different types of pitches and drills, from straightforward soft tosses to varying trajectories. The machine’s compatibility with regulation baseballs provides a realistic feel for players, further enhancing the training experience. Additionally, its design allows for the integration of extra stackers from other Furlihong machines, maximizing ball capacity and reducing reloading time, thereby extending continuous training sessions for focused improvement.

• Pros:
  • No power supply needed
  • Angle adjustable for different ages/skills
  • Durable mechanical mechanism
  • Compatible with regulation baseballs
• Cons:
  • Manual foot operation required
  • 6-second delay per pitch
  • Extra stackers sold separately
  • No fast-pitch option

View at Amazon

5. SKLZ Portable Pitching Machine

• Ball Compatibility: Regulation baseballs and practice balls
• Pitch Interval: Automatically tosses every 8 seconds
• Adjustability: Adjustable height and distance
• Power Options: AC adapter or batteries (not included)

The SKLZ Pitching Machine is a versatile training tool engineered to improve both offensive and defensive skills for baseball and softball players. Its primary strength lies in automatically tossing regulation baseballs and practice balls every 8 seconds, providing a consistent and reliable pitch that allows athletes to concentrate on their hitting accuracy, timing, and power development. This regularity helps build crucial muscle memory and visual acuity, essential for real-game scenarios. Beyond hitting, the machine’s ability to be adjusted for height and distance means it can effectively simulate various defensive plays, from ground balls to pop-ups, making it a comprehensive aid for overall skill development.

Designed for portability and ease of use, the SKLZ machine can be powered by an AC adapter for home practice or by batteries for on-the-go training sessions (batteries not included). This flexibility ensures that practice can happen virtually anywhere, without being tethered to a power outlet. The robust construction, utilizing polypropylene, ABS, and steel, ensures durability and stability during intense drills. Whether you’re a beginner honing basic techniques or an experienced player refining advanced skills, the SKLZ Pitching Machine offers a practical and efficient solution for consistent practice, fostering confidence and improved performance on the field.

• Pros:
  • Improves both hitting and fielding
  • Compatible with regulation and practice balls
  • Adjustable height and distance
  • Flexible AC or battery power
• Cons:
  • Batteries are not included
  • Fixed 8-second pitch interval
  • Requires ball reloading after use
  • May not have advanced speed settings

View at Amazon

6. Louisville Slugger Soft Toss Training System

• Functionality: Soft toss, fielding trainer, batting tee
• Adjustability: Fully adjustable height
• Pitch Intervals: 6, 8, or 10 seconds (manual load)
• Setup Time: 30-second setup, one-step conversion

The Louisville Slugger Soft Toss Training System is an ingenious multi-functional tool designed to elevate a player’s all-around baseball and softball skills, distinguishing itself with its remarkable versatility. Its unique sloped design allows it to gently soft-toss baseballs and softballs towards the batter, providing an excellent way to enhance hand-eye coordination and improve timing. This system goes beyond just hitting practice; with a simple, one-step conversion, it transforms into a fielding trainer that rolls ground balls at a short distance, perfect for defensive drills. Furthermore, it quickly converts into a new and improved batting tee, offering multiple avenues for practice in one compact unit.

A key benefit of this system is its fully adjustable height, making it suitable for players of all ages and stature, from young beginners to adult athletes. While it requires manual loading of the feeding arm, this feature grants the user control over pitch intervals—allowing releases at 6, 8, or 10 seconds. This adaptability enables players to tailor their practice pace, focusing on consistent swings without the need for a partner. The entire system boasts a quick 30-second setup, meaning more time spent practicing and less time assembling. While it accommodates various ball types, users should be mindful that high-seamed softballs might affect trajectory, highlighting its careful design for optimal performance.

• Pros:
  • Multi-functional (toss, fielding, tee)
  • Fully adjustable height
  • Variable toss intervals (6/8/10 sec)
  • Quick 30-second setup and conversion
• Cons:
  • Requires manual ball loading
  • High-seam softballs may affect trajectory
  • No automatic ball feeder
  • May not offer fast pitch speeds

View at Amazon

7. Furlihong 6902BHA Rechargeable Baseball/Softball Toss Machine

• Power: Rechargeable battery for field-to-field portability.
• Height: Adjustable for Baseball (1.2m-1.7m) and Softball (0.4m-0.6m).
• Pitch Interval: Consistent 6-second delivery using a high-end motor.
• Speed Settings: Four selectable speed options (1-4) for varied training.

The Furlihong 6902BHA is an excellent solution for players and coaches needing a versatile, two-in-one soft toss machine for both baseball and softball practice. Its standout feature is the rechargeable, high-quality built-in battery, which grants complete portability, allowing you to easily move the machine between different fields, cages, or even the backyard without worrying about power cords or outlets. This freedom makes setup and teardown simple and quick. The high-end motor is engineered to ensure a consistent toss every six seconds, which is perfect for groove repetition training.

This machine is highly adaptable to different athletes and practice needs due to its wide range of adjustability. The height mechanism is designed to specifically serve both sports, offering a higher toss range for baseball and a lower one for softball. Furthermore, the inclusion of four distinct speed settings (1–4) allows you to customize the difficulty, making it suitable for everyone from beginners working on contact to more advanced hitters focusing on timing. The design is complemented by an extendable ball stacker (available separately), which maximizes the time spent practicing and minimizes downtime for reloading.

• Pros:
  • Completely rechargeable battery makes it highly portable.
  • Versatile 2-in-1 design handles both baseball and softball.
  • Consistent 6-second interval promotes rhythmic training.
• Cons:
  • Balls must be purchased separately.
  • A 6-second delay may be too slow for high-intensity, rapid-fire drills.

View at Amazon

How to Choose Soft Toss Machines

Selecting the right soft toss machine can significantly enhance your batting practice, improve hand-eye coordination, and build consistent swing mechanics. With a variety of options available, from basic manual models to sophisticated automatic systems, understanding the key features and considerations is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision, ensuring you invest in a machine that perfectly matches your training goals, skill level, and budget.

Understanding Soft Toss Machines and Their Benefits

Soft toss machines are designed to provide a consistent, repeatable pitch that allows batters to focus on their swing technique without the distraction of an unpredictable throw. Unlike traditional pitching machines that deliver fastballs, soft toss machines typically loft balls gently into the hitting zone at a slower speed or specific trajectory. This controlled environment is ideal for developing fundamental skills, refining timing, and practicing specific aspects of your swing, such as contact point and follow-through. They eliminate the need for a practice partner, making solo training sessions highly efficient and accessible. The benefits extend to all ages and skill levels, from young beginners learning the basics to experienced players fine-tuning advanced techniques.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying

1. Power Source and Portability

The power source is a fundamental consideration, directly impacting where and how you can use your soft toss machine.

Battery-Operated vs. AC Adapter

Many soft toss machines are battery-operated, offering maximum portability. This is perfect for backyard practice, trips to the park, or training away from power outlets. However, battery life and the cost of replacement batteries can be a factor. Machines that use an AC adapter are typically more powerful and offer continuous operation, but they require proximity to an electrical outlet, limiting their placement options. Some advanced models offer dual power options, providing the best of both worlds.

Manual/Mechanical Systems

A growing category includes foot-operated or entirely mechanical soft toss machines. These require no electricity or batteries, relying on spring mechanisms or levers to launch balls. While they might involve a slightly longer delay between pitches and manual resetting, their zero-power requirement makes them incredibly durable, reliable, and usable anywhere, even in remote locations. This simplicity also often translates to less maintenance and a lower chance of electronic failure.

2. Ball Compatibility

The type of balls a machine can throw is critical. Some machines are designed exclusively for lightweight plastic training balls, which are safer for younger players and indoor use. Others can handle regulation baseballs, softballs, or specialized practice balls (like wiffle balls or dimpled balls). Ensure the machine you choose is compatible with the balls you intend to use for your training. Using incompatible balls can lead to machine malfunction or inaccurate tosses. If you train for both baseball and softball, look for versatile machines that can accommodate both.

3. Adjustability and Versatility

The more adjustable a machine is, the more versatile your training can be.

Pitch Height and Angle

Look for machines that offer adjustable pitch height and launch angles. This allows you to simulate different pitch trajectories, practice various hitting zones, and even use the machine for fielding drills (e.g., ground balls or pop flies). A wider range of adjustability caters to players of different heights and skill levels, making the machine a long-term investment as skills evolve.

Speed Settings

While soft toss implies slower speeds, some machines offer adjustable speeds or different “gear” settings. This can be beneficial for gradually increasing the challenge as a player’s timing improves or for simulating a soft toss from a slightly greater distance. For multi-sport machines, different settings for baseball vs. softball are highly desirable.

4. Ball Feeder Capacity and Interval

An automatic ball feeder is a significant convenience.

Capacity

The capacity of the ball feeder determines how many pitches you can get before needing to reload. Larger capacities (e.g., 9-12 balls) allow for longer, uninterrupted practice sessions, maximizing your time at the plate. Smaller capacities are acceptable for quick drills but might require frequent reloading.

Pitch Interval

The interval between pitches (e.g., every 6, 7, or 8 seconds) is another important factor. A consistent interval helps players develop rhythm and timing. Some machines have fixed intervals, while others might offer slight variations. For manual machines, the interval is controlled by the user, offering more flexibility but less automation.

5. Durability and Construction

A soft toss machine is an investment, so its durability is key. Look for models made from sturdy materials like steel or high-quality ABS plastic that can withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements if used outdoors. Read reviews to gauge real-world durability and reliability. A robust construction ensures your machine will last through many seasons of practice.

6. Price and Brand Reputation

Soft toss machines vary widely in price, from budget-friendly options for beginners to more expensive, feature-rich models for serious athletes. Set a budget, but remember that a slightly higher investment in a reputable brand with good reviews often translates to better performance, durability, and customer support. Brands like Franklin, Heater Sports, SKLZ, and Louisville Slugger are well-known in the baseball and softball equipment market for their quality.

Safety Considerations

Even with soft toss machines, safety should always be a priority. Always wear a batting helmet during practice, especially when using harder balls or if the machine has adjustable speeds. Ensure there is ample space around the hitting area, free from obstacles or other people. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation and maintenance.

Conclusion

Choosing the best soft toss machine boils down to carefully assessing your individual needs and training goals. Consider who will be using the machine (age, skill level), where you’ll be practicing (power availability, space), and what types of drills you want to perform. By focusing on factors like power source, ball compatibility, adjustability, feeder capacity, and durability, you can select a soft toss machine that will be a valuable asset in developing consistent hitting mechanics, improving hand-eye coordination, and ultimately elevating your game.