Abstract
Throughout the years collegiate baseball has evolved from traditional pitch calling to implementing technology into every pitch. The new pitch watch is worn on the wrist of pitchers and coaches send real time calls directly to the pitcher before each thrown ball. PURPOSE: This study sought to determine if there was a significant difference in accuracy while using the pitch watch compared to traditional pitch calling. METHODS: Participants included twenty-one Texas Lutheran University pitchers. Ten pitches were recorded during the game using the pitch watch and ten pitches were recorded in the bullpen using traditional pitch calling by the catcher while the coach observed. RESULTS: A significant difference was found in strike percentage between the pitch watch (with a mean of 54%) and the traditional pitch calling (with a mean of 63%). A t test resulted in a t stat of 3.37, a t critical of 2.08 and a P value of .003. CONCLUSIONS: Seasoned pitchers commented on how the pitch watch threw off their timing and did not allow for the opportunity to call off pitches. While technology in sports can be helpful, it may or may not always be the best option.
Recommended Citation
Revis, Kirk; Garza, Johnny; and Helbig, Casi
(2025)
"The Effect of a Pitch Watch on Accuracy in Collegiate Baseball,"
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 2:
Iss.
17, Article 159.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol2/iss17/159
