The Dodgers are embracing virtual reality batting practice, a device the uses VR goggles to create immersive visual experiences and simulate at-bats
Matt Beaty had seen it before. The floppy blond hair. The low leg kick. The towering overhead release point. The blistering sinker with late, devastating bite.
The release point, velocity and movement of pitches thrown by any MLB pitcher against the backdrop of any stadium can be summoned with a few keystrokes and observed through the headset. Batters can hold a miniature bat with a toggle they press to indicate when they’d begin a swing, or they can merely watch the computer-generated pitches.
VR batting practice isn’t universally accepted, nor uniformly utilized in the Dodgers clubhouse. Some players, such as Corey Seager and A.J. Pollock, have integrated it into their preparation regimen. Others decline to use it altogether. Most fall somewhere in the middle, keen to see specific pitchers but hesitant to become completely reliant on the cutting-edge system.Advertisement
This was the vision Chris O’Dowd, a former minor league catcher, had in mind when he co-founded WIN Reality with his father Dan, the former general manager of the Colorado Rockies who now is a studio analyst for MLB Network. They recognized a market inefficiency: that for all the “time and effort put into the swing, currently it’s really difficult to practice [a hitting] approach before a game,” Chris O’Dowd said.
For all its potential, the system is largely a supplementary tool. But even the occasional five-minute VR session, O’Dowd believes, could have positive effects at the plate. A batter might more easily recognize a pitch sailing out of the zone, better square up something over the plate, or simply feel more comfortable facing an unfamiliar foe.
Justin Turner used the goggles four times to prepare for different pitchers, but went hitless on each occasion. Alex Verdugo and Joc Pederson occasionally use the VR system, but are still partial to traditional video study. Russell Martin recognizes its potential, but thinks the visuals could be better.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Historical memorials are not enough to stop anti-Semitism in EuropeReminders of history are plentiful for those willing to learn. Yet anti-Semitism is resurgent in Europe
Read more »
4 Expert-Backed Ways to Build Mental ToughnessMental toughness is a skill set, and execution without practice rarely—if ever—works.
Read more »
Like You, Sofia Richie Loves Reality TV and Shopping on The Real Real'I love Wang. I think I really connect with Wang on a style and personal level.' Happy birthday, SofiaRichie!
Read more »
Taylor Swift On Kanye MTV Video Music Awards Interrupt: “That Stuff Doesn’t Happen In Real Life”The MTV Video Music Awards have had many memorable moments. But none can top Kanye West’s interruption of Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech during the 2009 awards. The annual awards show…
Read more »
Here’s How to Get Rid of Summer Acne, StatBanish unwanted blemished in 15 minutes or less with this new skin tool.
Read more »
17 Crispy-Crackly Recipes Starring Your Cast Iron SkilletIt's the most versatile (and delicious) tool in your kitchen—seriously.
Read more »