MLB Umpires to Wear Microphones During 2020 Season
By Jackson Thompson
MLB is taking a page out of the NFL Films' playbook by adding microphones to umpires in 2020 According to ESPN's Pedro Gomez.
The microphones will be used during replay review and challenges, so those watching the game back home or from in the crowd can hear if the call was overturned.
New for the 2020 MLB season: Much like NFL referees have done for years, umpires will be mic’d up and tell fans in attendance and those watching on television and listening on radio if reviewed calls are upheld or overturned. They may also explain rules, if necessary.
— Pedro Gomez (@pedrogomezESPN) January 27, 2020
Microphones will also only be attached to the crew chiefs. This will allow umpires to also give verbal explanations on the rulings if there is potential confusion surrounding a decision.
Since MLB introduced video replay and challenges in 2014, it has been one of the worst professional sports in communicating video results and justification for ruling to the public. The introduction of microphones in 2020 will finally allow the league to alleviate some of the skepticism surrounding certain replay decisions.
MLB takes a cue from the NFL and will reportedly have umpires wear mics this season.
— Yahoo Sports MLB (@MLByahoosports) January 27, 2020
Details ➡️ https://t.co/KUhRntpC4V pic.twitter.com/bwraIkNGs8
The NFL has had attached microphones attached to officials since it first introduced video review in 1986 and the AAF, during its short lifespan, even allowed fans to listen to discussion by the referees during review.
It's good to see that baseball is following suit and looking for ways to improve the technological aspects of the game.