MLB to allow electronic pitch signaling devices

Major League Baseball will permit pitchers and catchers to relay signals via electronic devices during the 2022 season, the league confirmed Tuesday.

Use of the devices to coordinate pitch selection between pitcher and catcher would make it all but impossible for opposing teams to steal signals, which has been an issue of increasing concern since the Astros’ sign-stealing scandal came to light.

The system, developed by PitchCom, was used at times during 2022 spring training and was tested in the California League during the 2021 season. PitchCom works by allowing players to exchange signals using a minimal amount of technology: a transmitter with buttons the catcher wears on his wrist and receivers that can be tucked inside the hats of pitchers and middle infielders (to allow for defensive positioning tweaks). 

I've heard rave reviews about PitchCom this spring, and Buster is reporting players will be allowed to use it during the regular season.

In addition to making signs from catchers an anachronism, PitchCom, some players and executives believe, could help speed up games, too. https://t.co/15Uzn4zeCN

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) April 5, 2022

Per ESPN, use of the technology will not be mandatory, and pitchers and catchers will still be free to signal pitches by traditional means if they prefer to do so.