Introduction: Trackman UmpAssist is an advanced pitch-tracking solution designed to automate and streamline the process of calling balls and strikes in baseball games. By integrating with PitchCom technology, UmpAssist ensures that accurate, real-time decisions are made without disrupting the umpire’s ability to focus on other important in-game events.
How It Works: UmpAssist operates in three phases:
- Pre-Season:
- Collect strike zone data
- Set strike zone size rules
- Calibration
- Set up Support Plan
- Pre-Game:
- Connect PitchCom device to TM server
- Test pitch call relay to home plate Umpire
- Confirmation of strike zone sizes/definition
- Confirmation of player strike zones
- In-Game:
- Use the Trackman Tagging App to tag players and ensure the correct strike zone is applied.
- Relay real-time pitch calls to the home plate umpire.
Strike Zone Setup:
The league will need to choose from three strike zone definitions:
- Custom Top/Bottom SZ: The most accurate strike zone definition, where each player is given a unique top and bottom measurement for the strike zone.
- Height-Based SZ: The most common strike zone definition, using percentages of the player's height to determine the strike zone.
- Static SZ: A fixed strike zone that does not change for any player, used if no other information is available.
Pitch Call Relay:
- The Tagging App and Local Live Dashboard will display whether a pitch is “IN” or “OUT” based on its position relative to the strike zone.
- PitchCom relays an audio message, “BALL” or “STRIKE,” directly to the umpire’s earpiece within 500 ms of the pitch crossing home plate.
General Manager Responsibilities: Initial setup includes pairing the PitchCom Transmitter with the stadium server. Once paired, the PitchCom Transmitter should be positioned to maintain a clear line of sight to the field for optimal signal transmission.
System Operator Responsibilities: Ensure the correct strike zone settings are applied for each game. If a player's height is missing, the static strike zone will be used, but the operator can contact Trackman to update the information.
Umpire Responsibilities: Umpires can use the audio cues provided by the PitchCom receiver or refer to the dashboard for additional information on pitch calls.
For additional information refer to the PDF attached below and for any issues or feedback, contact Trackman Support.