PitchCom

PitchCom is a technology that allows catchers to call pitches without the use of finger signs. It takes the form of a touchpad worn either on the catcher's wrist or on his kneepad, which communicates with a receiver in the pitcher's cap, that translates the code into words. Punching the appropriate code will tell the pitcher what type of pitch is requested, as well as its location. The pitcher can then request another pitch by shaking off the catcher, as he would do if finger signs were used, and the catcher can then punch in another proposal.

The system was first tested in the minor leagues in 2021 and at the major league level in spring training in 2022. It was approved for use in games before the start of that season. It has two main advantages: it makes sign-stealing next to impossible (obviously, any attempt to pirate the encrypted wireless signal between the catcher and pitcher would be considered a very serious offense), and it also speeds up the game. Note that up to three other fielders can also wear a receiver, as their positioning often depends on the type of pitch requested. These would typically be the two middle infielders (the shortstop and second baseman) and the center fielder. The system can work in multiple languages and code words can also be used instead of the usual names for pitches.

While use of this system is optional, it was typically very well received by all the major league players who tried it, including both pitchers and catchers, and veterans set in their ways, and its usage soon became universal. There were a few glitches, generally related to the difficulty of using the device in very loud environments, but things generally worked out well during that first season. It was credited for cutting average game time by six minutes by eliminating the need to repeat lengthy sequences of signals in situations with runners on base and generally speeding up that part of the game.

The device was conceived and is manufactured by a company called ProMystic, whose usual product line is used by magicians and mentalists.

Further Reading

• Chris Bumbaca: "'It just sort of whispers to you': How MLB players feel about the PitchCom device that could end sign-stealing", USA Today, April 8, 2022. [1]
• Anthony Castrovince: "MLB informs clubs PitchCom is approved for '22 season: After successful Spring Training test run, pitch-calling technology will be an option in regular season", mlb.com, April 5, 2022. [2]
• Jorge Garcia (Los Angeles Times): "Padres' Mike Clevinger was already having a rough night. Then PitchCom piled on", Yahoo! News, October 12, 2022. [3]