Junior Hack Attack Baseball Pitching Machine: Complete Setup

After unboxing your Junior Hack Attack pitching machine, be sure the horizontal swivel lock is tightened securely. Next, turn the elevation adjustment clockwise until the throwing head is tight against the frame lock pin. Tighten just enough to secure the throwing head. Legs Insert the rear leg first (it locks into place with push buttons), then tilt the machine upright so that it rests on it's wheel guard. Next, insert the two front legs into the front sockets in the undercarriage using their push buttons. Walk around to the front of Junior Hack Attack, and reach down and grab the wheel guards. Lift the machine up and over the front legs and set it gently onto the rear leg. Position Junior Hack Attack For optimal performance, position the Junior Hack Attack so the release point is approximately 46 feet from home plate. Then, look down the ball chute. Move the rear leg right or left, adjusting the machine so that it is points directly at home plate. Make sure the horizontal swivel lock remains tight. Finally, unlock the frame lock. Turn the handle of the elevation control counter-clockwise until the pin of the travel lock drops out of the way. Make sure the horizontal swivel lock is tightened securely before operating. This prevents unintentional head movement that could send a pitch off-target.

Step 2: Safety First

Safety is non-negotiable when operating the Junior Hack Attack:

• Never mix leather balls with synthetic pitching balls, or combine new and old balls. Consistency is key for repeatable pitches.

• Never use wet balls, which can damage wheels and cause unsafe throws.

• Always test pitches before allowing a batter to step in. Confirm velocity, break, and repeatability with several trial pitches.

• Both the pitcher / operator and the batter must wear helmets.

• The operator should stand behind a protective L-screen (not included).

• Never adjust speed or location settings while a batter is at the plate.

Step 3: Adjusting Pitch Height and Location

Use the elevation control handle to raise or lower the pitch in the strike zone. To move pitches inside or outside, adjust the rear leg. These features make the Junior Hack Attack faster and easier to fine-tune than two-wheel machines.

Step 4: Selecting Pitch Types with the Junior Hack Attack Pitching Machine

The three-wheel design allows hitters to see the ball clearly through the motion and release, mimicking a live pitcher. By adjusting the wheel dials, you can throw:

• Fastballs

• Curveballs

• Sliders

• Split fingers

The manual also notes that changes in wheel speed alter pitch spin and location, so you may need to readjust elevation and rear leg placement. Importantly, do not attempt to make adjustments with a batter in the box.

Batting Practice Feeding Technique

When feeding balls:

1. Confirm the hitter is ready.

2. Present the ball at eye level to the batter before placing it in the chute.

3. Hold the ball firmly against the chute so it rolls smoothly into the wheels.

4. Release cleanly to maintain timing and consistency.

5. This feeding motion is essential for hitters to develop proper stride and reaction to release timing.

Fungo and Fielding Practice

Pivot the throwing head to deliver grounders, line drives, fly balls, and towering pop-ups. For fungo work, loosen both the elevation control and horizontal swivel lock so the head moves freely. Remember: never reach into the chute or wheels to insert a ball.

Transport and Storage

When practice ends:

• Turn all three speed dials to “0,” then switch the machine off and unplug it.

• Wait for the wheels to come to a complete stop before moving or servicing.

• Tilt the machine forward onto the wheel guard, remove the front legs, then roll it on the transport wheels.

• For vehicle transport, you can remove the throwing head, taking care to secure it properly.

The machine’s 75 lb. frame makes it sturdy yet light enough for one person to manage.

Maintenance and Care

To keep the Junior Hack Attack pitching machine in top shape:

• Grease the elevation control and swivel lock once per season.

• Check bolts on throwing wheels and motors for tightness.

• Clean throwing wheels regularly with soap and water, or a Scotch-Brite pad for heavier build-up. Never clean while wheels are turning, and always unplug first.

• Discard worn or soft balls. Old or damaged balls reduce accuracy and add unnecessary wear.

Ball Types to Use with Junior Hack Attack

To get the most out of your machine, use the balls suggested by the manufacturer. In this case, the manufacturer suggests the following: Baden Kevlar Seamed Ballistic Leather, Baden Dimpled Baseballs, or Baden Dimpled Softballs Additionally, the Junior Hack Attack pitching machine is designed for use with “real” leather baseballs designed for pitching machines, dimpled practice balls, wiffle balls, and all softer practice balls. Pitching machines are not made to be used with regulation balls, even though many machines can throw these balls. However, regulation balls are not made for machine compatibility and wear down not only your machines but also your balls.

Final Thoughts

The Junior Hack Attack pitching machine setup is easy and quick. This pitching machine is more than just a youth training tool; it’s a professional-grade system designed for hitters who want to train professionally. With its realistic three-wheel design, versatile pitch selection, and safety-first construction, it helps athletes build real-game timing and confidence.

Whether you’re running batting practice, fungo drills, or catcher’s pop-ups, this machine delivers accuracy and durability. Add in the optional softball conversion kit or 7.5-inch vision-training ball, and it becomes one of the most complete training systems available.

Installation Manual

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