Ever wonder what it’s like to catch a 90 MPH fastball from a Major League Baseball pitcher? The Seattle Mariners are giving you a glimpse at this month’s Spring Training.
The Mariners digital team hooked up a GoPro camera to catcher Mike Zunino as he participated in a workout session with pitcher Ariel Miranda this week in Peoria, Ariz. Here is the result:
What's it like to catch a Major League pitcher? Let Mike Zunino show you, through his eyes.#MarinersST pic.twitter.com/HRU6vw87gh
— Mariners (@Mariners) February 21, 2017
Not only is it cool to see the perspective of Zunino, but I also enjoyed listening to his chatter and feedback for Miranda. It also makes you think about the possibilities for using head-mounted cameras during games, not only for catchers, but each player on the field. Perhaps umpires could also wear them, too.
@Cut4 @MLB Would it be possible, to have this view (w/ Commentators) for games?. Gives a new perspective on Catching.
— Supreminho (@Whiskey_Khaos) February 21, 2017
We’ve seen other sports leagues test the use of GoPros on players and referees — FOX just did it during a college football game. This also isn’t the first time someone has put a GoPro or similar camera on a catcher.
“I feel like the concept of getting the catcher’s perspective has been around for a while,” said Nathan Rauschenberg, senior digital marketing manager at the Mariners. “But the technology has only recently made it something both effective and affordable.”
Rauschenberg told GeekWire that the team is experimenting with several different digital content and social media strategies during Spring Training this year, like using the GoPro for cool angles or uploading videos on Snapchat to give fans a first look at Felix Hernandez’s new cleats, for example.
“Spring Training is a great chance to experiment with different perspectives and ideas, all with the goal of bringing fans closer to the Mariners through unparalleled access,” he said.
Goodbye, baseball.
Hop in the cage with Mike Z. #MarinersST pic.twitter.com/0Fq0Z1CHML
— Mariners (@Mariners) February 16, 2017
Rauschenberg added that Mariners GM Jerry Dipoto and the coaching staff are “completely on board with anything we believe will bring our fans closer to the team.”
The sun was out and so were we—the 2017 #Mariners take the field for the first time.
Today's #MarinersST Recap: pic.twitter.com/8wNwrkwbNX
— Mariners (@Mariners) February 21, 2017
Yes, even big leaguers have Photo Day.
Go behind the scenes with Kyle Seager and #Mariners photographer Ben VanHouten. ? #MarinersST pic.twitter.com/mPUEVmzETs
— Mariners (@Mariners) February 20, 2017
