DIY Batting Cage: Simple and Affordable Garage Setup

Updated at: 12/06/2025

For baseball and softball enthusiasts, consistent practice is key to improving batting skills. Expensive batting cages can be a significant barrier for many players, but what if you could create a high-quality practice space right in your own garage for a fraction of the cost? This guide will walk you through building a simple yet effective DIY batting cage, transforming your garage into a personal training facility without breaking the bank. We'll cover the essential materials, focusing on affordability and ease of construction, enabling you to build a cage suitable for both casual practice and more serious training.

This project requires minimal tools and readily available materials, making it accessible to even novice DIYers. Forget about expensive memberships and inflexible scheduling; you’ll have complete control over your practice time. Ready to swing into action and create your own personalized batting cage? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear protective gear, including a batting helmet, eye protection, and batting gloves, when using the batting cage. Never swing without this protection.
  • Ensure the netting is securely fastened and in good condition before each use. Replace damaged netting immediately to prevent injury from flying balls.
  • Supervise children closely at all times while they are using the batting cage. Never allow unsupervised use.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Install Support Cables

    • Run the plastic coated steel cable across the garage from one end to the other.
    • Use U-shaped bolts to clamp and secure the cable where it overlaps, creating a strong connection.
    • For added support, use an eye hook (or similar hook) to create a hook for the cable to hang from.
    • Bolt the eye hook securely into the wall joists, repeating on both ends.
    Bolt the eye hook securely into the wall joists, repeating on both ends.Bolt the eye hook securely into the wall joists, repeating on both ends.Bolt the eye hook securely into the wall joists, repeating on both ends.Bolt the eye hook securely into the wall joists, repeating on both ends.
    Install Support Cables
    • Repeat the cabling process for a second cable to create a frame for the netting.
    Repeat the cabling process for a second cable to create a frame for the netting.
    Install Support Cables

  2. Hang the Netting

    • Hang the netting:
    • Use shower hooks to easily and quickly clip the netting onto the cables.
    Use shower hooks to easily and quickly clip the netting onto the cables.Use shower hooks to easily and quickly clip the netting onto the cables.
    Hang the Netting

Read more: DIY Batting T-Stand: A Cost-Effective Guide

Tips

  • Source materials from local hardware stores like True Value for convenience.
  • Consider placing the batting cage in a corner of the garage for efficient space utilization.
  • Purchase netting from a reliable online retailer like personalpit.com for quality and durability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inadequate Netting Support

Reason: Using flimsy poles or inadequate anchoring points can lead to the net collapsing under the force of batted balls, potentially causing injury or damage.
Solution: Reinforce the net frame with sturdier poles and secure them firmly to the garage walls or ceiling using strong straps and brackets.

2. Poor Netting Choice

Reason: Choosing a net with too small of a mesh or one that is not designed for high-impact use will result in tears or damage from batted balls.
Solution: Invest in a heavy-duty netting specifically designed for batting cages, ensuring that the mesh size is appropriate for the type of balls being used.

FAQs

What materials do I need to build a simple batting cage?
Basic materials include netting (heavy-duty is best), PVC pipes or conduit for the frame, rope or zip ties for securing the netting, and ground anchors or weights to keep the cage stable. You may also need connectors for the pipes and measuring tape.
How much space do I need in my garage for a batting cage?
The size depends on your needs, but a reasonable size for a single batter is around 10ft wide x 10ft deep x 8ft high. Measure your garage carefully to ensure you have sufficient space and can accommodate the cage's dimensions.
What type of netting is best for a DIY batting cage?
Heavy-duty netting designed for baseball or softball is recommended. Look for netting with small mesh sizes to prevent balls from easily passing through. Consider UV-resistant netting for extended outdoor lifespan if your garage door is open often.