Odell Rec 5-6-7 Division uses a spring-loaded pitching machine, the Louisville Slugger UPM 45 Blue Flame. These spring-loaded pitching machines require cooperation between the coaches to ensure proper performance during the game. The goal of these machines is to provide a more consistent and accurate pitch, thus resulting in a more enjoyable and productive experience for the players. Coaches must read and understand these rules and instructions before using the machine.
Players, children under 18 years of age, and those who have not read these rules and instructions are NOT permitted to use the pitching machines under ANY circumstances.
The machine will be placed on the field by the Umpire for games and the coaches will ensure the proper settings are correct prior to the start of the game.
The front stabilizer bar of the pitching machine will be placed behind the first pitching rubber approximately 25 feet from the back of home plate.
The range of settings of the pitching machines will be as follows: 1 Power Lever, 3 Release Block, 3 Micro
Adjustments may be necessary throughout the season to accommodate spring usage and/or temperature. Once an inning begins, no other adjustments will be permitted except to calibrate wild pitches or with the micro adjustment screw to adjust strike zone. All other adjustments must be agreed upon by both team’s coaches and umpire and shall not take longer than 3 minutes.