In the world of baseball, managing pitch counts is not only about performance but also player safety and injury prevention. Keeping track of pitches thrown during games and practices is crucial to ensure pitchers are not overworked. Fortunately, technology has made this task easier with the advent of pitch count apps and software. In this review, we’ll explore the top baseball pitch count apps and software, evaluating their features, ease of use, and accuracy. Whether you’re a coach, parent, or player, these tools will help you strike the right balance between performance and safety on the mound.
1. GameChanger
Features: GameChanger is a popular app for scorekeeping and pitch tracking. It allows coaches or scorekeepers to record every pitch thrown, including type and location. The app provides pitch count alerts and tracks pitch usage over time. It also offers integration with game stats and player profiles.
Pros: Comprehensive pitch tracking, real-time alerts, integration with game stats, player profiles.
2. Pitch Smart
Features: Pitch Smart is an initiative by Major League Baseball (MLB) to promote arm health. They offer a free pitch count and rest calculator tool on their website. By inputting a player’s age, it provides recommended pitch limits and rest days based on pitch count.
Pros: Free tool, MLB-backed, provides recommended pitch limits and rest days.
3. iScore Baseball/Softball
Features: iScore is a versatile scorekeeping app that includes pitch tracking features. It allows scorekeepers to record pitches, including type and outcome (e.g., ball, strike, hit). The app generates pitch count reports and tracks pitch usage over multiple games.
Pros: Combined scorekeeping and pitch tracking, detailed pitch type and outcome tracking, pitch count reports.
4. Rapsodo Pitching 2.0
Features: Rapsodo Pitching 2.0 is a more advanced option, suitable for higher-level players and coaches. It uses sensor technology to track and analyze pitch data, including velocity, spin rate, and movement. The app provides in-depth insights for pitch development.
Pros: Advanced pitch data analysis, sensor technology, valuable for player development.
5. TrackMan Baseball
Features: TrackMan Baseball is another advanced tool used at higher levels of the game, including professional baseball. It provides comprehensive data on pitch performance, including velocity, spin rate, and movement. It’s primarily used for player development and scouting.
Pros: High-level pitch data analysis, used in professional baseball, valuable for player development and scouting.
6. Pitch Tracker by Diamond Kinetics
Features: Pitch Tracker by Diamond Kinetics is a sensor-based system that provides real-time feedback on pitch performance. It includes metrics like velocity, spin rate, and release point. It’s designed for both pitchers and coaches to improve pitching mechanics.
Pros: Real-time feedback, sensor-based technology, helps improve pitching mechanics.
7. Pitch Count Plus
Features: Pitch Count Plus is a straightforward app focused on pitch tracking and count management. It allows users to record pitches thrown and calculates pitch counts and rest recommendations based on various youth baseball guidelines.
Pros: Simple and easy-to-use, calculates pitch counts and rest recommendations.
Conclusion
Pitch count apps and software have become invaluable tools in modern baseball, aiding coaches, parents, and players in managing pitch loads and promoting arm health. The options listed above cater to a range of needs, from simple pitch counting to advanced data analysis. Whether you’re coaching a youth team or working with elite players, there’s a pitch count solution that suits your requirements. By using these tools responsibly, you can help ensure that pitchers stay healthy and perform at their best on the mound.