Ever since former Oakland Athletics GM Billy Beane (and, later, Brad Pitt) ushered in the Moneyball era, professional baseball has been dead-set on maximizing efficiency through the use of analytics, and with the Blast Baseball swing analysis system, even amateur players can get pro-level data. The system, created by sports technology company Blast Motion, can provide granular, accurate metrics for players' swing mechanics, which is why Blast Motion has been the official bat sensor for the MLB since 2016.
The Blast Baseball system consists of both hardware and software. The physical device itself is a small sensor that attaches to the knob of any baseball bat via a form-fitting rubber cap. No bigger than one's thumb, players will hardly notice the sensor once it's affixed to their bat, but it can track a host of key advanced metrics like swing speed, bat path angle, time to contact, and more. The system's software can then keep track of this information, logging it in Blast Motion's app and tracking players' progress over time. And beyond raw numbers, Blast Baseball's Smart Video Capture technology lets coaches and players use their smartphones to record automated slow-motion footage so they can analyze their form in detail as well.
Blast Baseball's analytics are currently being used by teams in the MLB, including the league-leading Houston Astros. Carlos Correa, the team's young shortstop and a 2017 MLB All-Star Game starter, has nothing but praise for system, saying, "It helps me throughout the year to stay consistent with my swing and get better every single day."
Smart Baseball Swing Sensors
'Blast Baseball' Gives Players and Coaches Advanced Swing Metrics
Trend Themes
1. Data-driven Swing Analysis - The use of smart baseball swing sensors like Blast Baseball's system provides players and coaches with advanced metrics, allowing for data-driven analysis of swing mechanics.
2. Mobile Video Analysis - Blast Baseball's Smart Video Capture technology enables players and coaches to record and analyze slow-motion footage of their swing mechanics using their smartphones.
3. Amateur Accessibility to Pro-level Analytics - With Blast Baseball's affordable and easy-to-use system, even amateur players can access pro-level swing metrics, leveling the playing field for aspiring baseball players.
Industry Implications
1. Sports Technology - The sports technology industry can leverage smart sensors and video analysis tools to develop innovative products and services that enhance performance and feedback in various sports.
2. Analytics Solutions - Analytics companies can create specialized solutions that cater to the needs of sports teams and individual athletes, providing them with detailed performance insights and recommendations.
3. Sports Equipment - The sports equipment industry can explore opportunities to integrate smart sensors into their products, enhancing the performance monitoring capabilities of athletes and providing actionable feedback.