The JUGS MVP® Pitching Machine (Part No. Z7400) is a versatile and dependable piece of sports equipment designed for baseball and softball training. It is engineered to deliver various types of pitches, including fastballs, flyballs, and grounders, to help players improve their batting and fielding skills. The machine is built with safety, performance, and durability in mind, reflecting decades of research and manufacturing experience from JUGS Sports.
Function Description:
The JUGS MVP® Pitching Machine is primarily used to throw balls at adjustable speeds and trajectories, simulating live pitching and fielding scenarios. It features a single rotating wheel mechanism that propels balls with consistent accuracy. The machine is suitable for both batting practice and fielding drills, offering flexibility in training routines. Its design emphasizes ease of operation and maintenance, making it a valuable tool for coaches and players alike.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Motor Specifications:
- Variable Speed: Yes
- Maximum Developed Horsepower: 1/4 hp
- Volts: 90vDC
- Amps: 3 amps
- Hertz: 50/60 Hz
- RPM (no load): 1900 rpm
- Overload Protection: Yes
- Tire Specifications:
- Size: 4.00/4.80-8
- Pressure: 16-17 lbs. (Note: Older MVP® models with uninflatable tires disregard this criterion.)
- Frame Specifications:
- Legs: Steel tubing
- Motor Mount and Leg Clamp Casting: Cast aluminum
- Ball Feed Chute: Cast aluminum
- Overall Height: 53 in.
- Overall Width: 56 in.
- Overall Weight: 70 lbs.
- Recommended Generator: Yamaha® EF1000
- Recommended Balls: JUGS Balls, Wilson leather 9-inch A1010 or better. The machine can also use JUGS dimpled style, Lite-Flite, Softie, one-ounce polyball baseballs, or tennis balls.
Usage Features:
- Digital Speed Readout: The machine is equipped with a digital speed readout (accuracy index of approx. 2 mph) on the control panel, allowing operators to precisely set and monitor pitch speeds.
- Adjustable Trajectory: The vertical adjustment T-clamp, located underneath the motor, allows for easy adjustment of pitch height and trajectory. This enables the machine to throw flyballs, pop-ups, and grounders by tipping the pitching machine up or down.
- Ball Feeding: For optimal accuracy, operators should hold leather balls across the seams and feed them consistently into the chute. It's crucial to ensure the batter is ready and the flight path is clear before feeding.
- Pitch Spacing: The ball feeder should adjust pitch spacing (typically 6-10 seconds apart) to match each batter's readiness routine, simulating live action.
- Safety Precautions:
- Operators must be at least 18 years of age and properly instructed.
- A pitcher's screen must always be used to protect the operator and the machine from batted balls.
- Batting helmets and safety glasses are mandatory for all batters and operators during machine operation.
- The machine should only be operated and stored in clean, dry locations.
- Always unplug the machine before making adjustments, cleaning, or servicing.
- Never place hands or body parts near the rotating tire(s) or into the ball feed chute.
- The "T" handle must be in place and tightened for stability.
- All T-clamps and tire lug bolts must be checked for tightness before each use.
- The machine should be turned off and allowed to come to a complete stop before transporting or stepping into the line of flight.
- Portability: The machine can be moved by tipping it onto its tire and rolling it like a wheelbarrow. Its legs can be removed for easier transport in a car trunk.
Maintenance Features:
- Tire Pressure: Maintain tire pressure at 16 to 17 psi (25 psi for tennis balls) for inflatable tires.
- Cleaning: Keep the machine free of grit and dirt. Use a clean, damp cloth for cleaning, avoiding brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based products, or solvents.
- Tire Cleaning: Periodically clean the tire surface with medium-grade sandpaper (or coarser if needed) to remove soil buildup and restore maximum performance and accuracy. This should always be done with the power switch OFF and the machine unplugged. A dirty tire may appear dark or glossy yellow.
- Inspection: Inspect extension cords periodically for damage. Inspect the machine and tires before every use for any damage, grit, or debris.
- Repairs: All electrical or mechanical repairs should be performed by a qualified JUGS service technician using only JUGS replacement parts.
- Storage: Store the machine and extension cord in separate, clean, dry, secured areas. Cover the machine with a suitable dust cover that does not retain moisture; avoid using plastic.
The JUGS MVP® Pitching Machine is a robust and reliable training aid, designed to enhance player development through consistent and safe practice. Its detailed specifications and user-friendly features make it an essential tool for serious baseball and softball programs.
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