How to Build a Batting Cage

admin — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 03:35:48 +0000

Building a batting cage doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. There are a couple of routes you can take. You could look at buying a ready made kit from a reputable vendor that comes with the poles and net or attempt to build your own. The first option will more than likely save you from having to put together all the parts and materials as well as providing a very detailed instruction manual on how to put the cage together. However, the second option of building your own batting cage is probably the most cost effective approach but will require you planning out the project a little more thoroughly.

Location

Determine where you plan to build the batting cage. Try to find a flat level ground area as this will make it easier when it comes time to actually using it for practice. Also, try to find a space that is at least 40 feet long and about 15 wide. If you have more space that is great but if you don’t then these dimensions coupled with creative hitting drills will allow you to still have an effective practice area.

Net

There several ways to finding a net. First, determine whether you want a new net or a used one. You can find several places online which sell new nets that will fit the dimensions you require. Once you spend a little time understanding the various characteristics of a good batting cage net maybe you’ll determine that a used one is the way to go. Try shopping online at places like eBay and Craigslist or you might even try your local classifieds.

Poles

The most cost effective poles are 4 x 4 treated wood posts. Compared to steel tubing, wood is an inexpensive approach for a frame. There are a couple of things to keep in mind. First, buy enough posts to spread them out over the length of the cage a span of 12 – 14 feet in between in each post. So, if your cage is 40 feet long, then you’ll need 3 for each side for a total of 6 posts. Second, you’ll need to concrete the posts in the ground. Follow your local building code for how deep the posts should go in the ground in order to get below the frost line. Also, ideally, your posts will be about 10-12 feet above the ground once buried. You’ll need this type of height in order to compensate for the sagging of the net.

Materials

You will need to purchase eye hooks that will screw in to the posts. Clips that will attach the net to the eye hooks and you might need to purchase wire that will run across the net in order to prevent too much net sag. The good thing is that all the materials including posts and concrete can be purchased at your local home improvement store.

This is a rough plan but one that will work and save you some money in the process. Learning how to build a batting cage is something everyone can do and provide hours of enjoyment for your family.

Practice Batting Cages » poles

How to Build a Batting Cage