By Abigail Gannaban · Last updated October 30, 2026
Choose a pitch back net if you want a baseball-and-softball-only frame that two players can use at once, with a target zone for pitching. Choose a baseball ball rebounder if you want a bigger, height-adjustable net on wheels that also serves other sports in the family. Both return throws as ground balls, line drives or pop-ups; the difference is build, size and what else the net has to do.
How do a pitch back net and a ball rebounder compare for baseball?
| Criterion | Pitch back net (Tanner 5 Position Double-Sided, 3.5' x 6') | Ball rebounder (The Varsity) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Net size | 3.5' x 6' | 5' x 5' net frame | Tanner page · Varsity page |
| Return angle | 5 positions; top angle adjusts | 4 screen positions plus tilt | Tanner page · Varsity page |
| Height adjustment | [not published] | Adjusts from 6.5' to 8' overall | Tanner page · Varsity page |
| Sides | Double-sided, two players at once | One side | Tanner page · Varsity page |
| Target | Visible target zone on the net | No printed target | Tanner page · Varsity page |
| Frame | 1.5" steel tube; weather resistant, store indoors for best results | Galvanized, powder-coated steel; UV-protected net | Tanner page · Varsity page |
| Moving it | [not published] | Rolls on 10" spoked wheels; 102 lbs | Varsity page |
| Sports | Baseball and softball | Baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer, basketball | Tanner page · Varsity page |
| Warranty | [not published] | 90 days on the net frame, 1 year on the steel | ABP warranty |
Specs checked October 30, 2026.
When is a pitch back net the better choice?
A pitch back net is the better choice for a baseball-only family that wants two players throwing at once or a pitching target. Tanner's page describes a double-sided net, so two players can use it at the same time, with a visible target zone and a top angle that adjusts for different drills. It returns throws as ground balls, line drives or pop flies depending on where they hit. For a family where only baseball and softball matter, that's a focused tool.
When is a ball rebounder the better choice?
A ball rebounder is the better choice when the net needs to move, adjust in height or serve more than baseball. The Varsity rolls on 10" spoked wheels, adjusts from 6.5' to 8' overall, and has four screen positions plus tilt, so a fielder can switch from grounders to line drives quickly. Its galvanized, powder-coated frame and UV-protected net are built to stay outside. All Ball Pro makes steel-frame, multi-sport ball rebounders, also called rebound nets, in St. Louis, Missouri. For the general comparison across sports, see our rebounder vs pitchback vs rebound wall guide.
Which one fits your player?
A pitch back net suits a baseball-only household that wants a double-sided frame and a printed pitching target. A ball rebounder fits a player who fields alone often, a yard where the net gets moved, or a family with players in other sports. If two kids throw at the same time every day, the double-sided pitchback is hard to beat.
How much bigger is the Varsity's net?
The Varsity's net is about 19% larger than the Tanner pitchback's. The math: 5' x 5' = 25 sq ft against 3.5' x 6' = 21 sq ft, and 25 ÷ 21 = 1.19. The shapes differ too: the Tanner is a tall, narrow 3.5' wide, while the Varsity is 5' wide. The extra 1.5' of width gives a throw that drifts sideways more room to still find the net.
FAQ
Is a pitchback the same as a ball rebounder? They do the same basic job, returning thrown balls, but pitchbacks like the Tanner are built for baseball and softball only, while ball rebounders like the Varsity are steel-frame, multi-sport units with height adjustment and wheels.
Can a pitch back net be used for fielding practice? Yes. Tanner's pitchback returns throws as ground balls, line drives or pop flies depending on where the ball hits the net.
Which is better for two players at once? A double-sided pitchback, like the Tanner, lets two players throw at the same time from opposite sides.
A pitch back net is a focused baseball tool; a ball rebounder adds size, wheels and other sports. See The Varsity Multi Sport Ball Rebounder.