The term “technology” is a little vague and subjective. What is technology to one person may be obsolete to another. For example, is a new batting tee a technology product?(Spoiler alert – no!).
The Webster Dictionary definition of Technology is the use of science to invent useful things or to solve problems. Still too vague for me.
My definition of technology in baseball is relatively simple and 21st century. If there is a semiconductor, software or the internet involved, then it is Technology.
So, looking at the most recent ABCA Best of Show winners:
YES Technology
- Figure It Out Baseball – yes, all content is on internet delivered worldwide
- XB3 Tracking System by Flightscope – Yes – chip on hardware, software/data are major part of experience
- Sideline Scout Elite – Yes, smart controls of video cameras and editing.
- College Baseball Insights – Yes, data delivered on on the internet.
Not Technology
- Polar Power Bats with ProXR handles
- Catchers Notebook – no on paper, yes when turned into phone app
- CleanFuego – device with no smarts
- Jugs SP3 Pitching Machine – no unless the velocity, machanical adjustments and spin rates are controlled electronically.
- Magic Tee – no, just a device.
- Kinetic Arm – no, unless it expands into data collection and monitoring
The primary focus of this blog will be on technology products/services.
Not to say we will not occasionally cover other types of products. For example, the Axe/ProXR handle topic is an interesting one as it relates to safety and bat speed. Also, I understand that DuraEdge Products is designing natural playing surface systems that provide better playability and safety with equivalent rainout prevention compared to artificial turf systems. I always wondered why the industry thought it is was smart to invest $1 million per field to play baseball on slippery plastic.
Diamond Techie 