In the wake of a non-call during a game last week, FIFA has begun discussing the possibility of using technology to help eliminate officiating blunders. One idea that struck me was the Smart Ball designed by Adidas. The idea behind this is simply suspending a chip in the middle of ball that sends a signal directly to the referee's watch less than a second after the ball crosses the goal line. That sounds like an excellent idea, but I can't imagine this would be used too often in soccer matches. 99 times out of 100, the ball goes to the back of the net, and it is an easy call for an official. However, this did get me thinking about sports back home here on American soil. As many problems that we have with umpires creating their own strike zone, and catchers fooling umpires with moving the glove, etc. Major League Baseball should look into designing there own version of the smart ball. There would be little computer devices hidden inside each baseball that would send a signal to the umpire if the ball crossed the plate. It would just beep, or buzz or something simple like that and then he'd know if it was a strike or not. Of course, I know that it might take the cost per baseball up a little, and I imagine that MLB goes through quite a few baseballs during an average season. But other than that, it would take some control away from the officials, which in my mind, is always a good thing.
Update: An anonymous poster reminded me that even if the "smart ball" had a chip in it, it still wouldn't be able to tell if the pitch was high or low. I'll admit, there is a part of me, that deep down likes the fact that some umpires have their own interpretation of the strike zone. It adds a special element to the game, and the more a pitcher or hitter knows the umpires they know what they can and cannot get away with. Sometimes it is fun and exciting, and other times it is frustrating and makes you want to rip your hair out. However, I don't like that the umpires have so much control behind the plate. There needs to be more accountability and I hate the fact that umpires can get away with blowing calls, or calling their own version of strikes and balls, or using different hand signals for safe and out, and no one says anything about it. Bottom line, there needs to be more consistancy and responsibility from the umpires. Any time the MLB can improve those factors is good for the game.
Of course, they could always stitch computer chips into the players knees and shoulders to take care of that problem as well...
3 comments:
You still have the dimension of knees to underarms, which is not fixed.
People need to accept the human element of officiating and realize that it evens out over time.
Hye thanks for the comment....I'm adding you to the blogroll
[p]Nike Shox shoes adopt high density PU foam column [url=http://uggbootspink.webstarts.com] ugg boots pink[/url] instead of a real spring . Sample Applications are Great Learning ToolsUnless you're a guru,ugg classic cardy boots sale, you might find it useful to do some practice with Flex before commencing developing applications . H a w a i i a n s h e e p s k i n U g g B a i l e y B u t t o n 1 8 7 3 a r e g e t t i n g t o b e m o s t o f t h e l a t e s t v o g u e o b j e c t s i n p a s t t i m e s p a r t n e r s y e a r s . These comfortable shoes aree snug and look ideal areound the toes Comes with the signature Nike Swoosh quietly [url=http://uggbootssaleamerican.webstarts.com]ugg boots sale american[/url] Nice design and style as well as clean shade permutations Natural leather and obvious natural leather uppers for a great look Phylon midsole supplies receptive extra padding Shox columns about the rearefoot provide cushioning along with a cozy in shape . You can also find the top actors wearing ugg boots in different hit movies . The light source in the Panasonic TX-L32G20B is used to make 100 frames per second . Sheepskin and ugg boots [url=http://ukuggsaleoutlet.webstarts.com聽]uk ugg sale outlet[/url] roxy tall come in short and tall models . It was very desirable and pleasing to the eyes of individuals [url=http://uggbootsgrey.webstarts.com]ugg boots grey[/url] who sincerely enjoy sports footwear.[/p][p]Many popular brands are now household names, and consumers are willing to pay a premium for high end sneakers . Smell the boots . A 6 Hardest Profits Job opportunities (and for you to prevent them -- in the least costs)In the following entrance I will tell you just what exactly There's no doubt that could [url=http://uggbootsforsaleusa.webstarts.com]ugg boots for sale usa[/url] be the 6 Hardest Profits Job opportunities there's a chance you're around . If you haven purchased your winter boot yet, you might want to take a look at the Ugg . When all superficial dirt has been removed, lightly moisten the outer surface with cold water . What originally started off with taking their products on sale to the vicinity farmer's market includes since, via online, escalated their profits beyond their wildest wishes . " Michael Kors handbags are available exclusively at Jenners, Edinburgh.[/p]
Post a Comment