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The Impact of Technology in Baseball
Five years ago, the Houston Astros faced severe criticism for using technology to steal their opponents’ signs. However, technology has now become an integral part of the game. Pitchers and middle infielders receive pitch signs through electronic receivers in their caps, and electronic stopwatches and buzzers determine balls and strikes. In fact, electronic ball and strike sensors may soon be introduced at the Major League level, as they are already being used in some minor league games. After an at-bat, hitters can review their performance on electronic notepads in the dugout.
The Hypocrisy of Major League Baseball
Major League Baseball’s embrace of technology is somewhat hypocritical. While they continue to bar Pete Rose from the Hall of Fame due to his betting on baseball, they now allow betting machines in stadiums that allow fans to bet on games. The introduction of electronic ball and strike machines could potentially eliminate home plate umpires, as they can be programmed to make calls. Furthermore, with the use of sensors in gloves and on runners, technology could play an even larger role in the game.
The Possibility of Replacing Human Players with Robots
With technology becoming a significant part of baseball, some propose the idea of replacing human players with robots. By doing so, owners could save money without having to pay exorbitant salaries or cover medical expenses for injured players. Robots could be easily repaired by switching out computer chips or circuit cards. They could even be programmed to mimic human behaviors, such as spitting or scratching between innings.
The Autonomy of Robotic Players
Robotic players could make their own decisions during the game. Hitters would choose whether to swing away or bunt, and pitchers could determine their pitch selection. This could result in more home runs and fewer errors. Additionally, robots wouldn’t require timeouts, speeding up the pace of play.
The Potential for Robotic Players in Major League Baseball
The concept of robotic players already exists and is found in children’s electronic game boxes. Major League Baseball simply needs to adapt and incorporate this technology for stadium play. Fans would likely be intrigued by the spectacle of robot players, leading to increased attendance and revenue.
The Inevitable Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Baseball
As Major League Baseball continues to embrace technology, it may not be long before robots are seen playing the game instead of humans. In an increasingly artificial world, the integration of artificial intelligence in baseball seems inevitable.
