Watching the Red Sox / Atlanta game recap and noticed that the catcher has an earpiece.

[OAITW r.2.0]

Last edited Tue Mar 17, 2026, 08:10 PM - Edit history (1)

Is he talking with the bench? Is this new?

[SheltieLover]

1. Coach calling pitches maybe?

[OAITW r.2.0]

2. That's what I assume. 2 way communication, maybe. I was unaware that this is allowed.

If so, I imagine all teams are using this technology. I hadn't heard anything about this, though....the reason for my post.

[SheltieLover]

3. Should be against rules, imo. Catchers run the team on the field!

[Wounded Bear]

4. It's part of the pitch com system. Been in use for 2 or 3 seasons now...

Generally, the catcher has a module with which he can signal the pitcher what pitch to throw. The pitcher has a receiver that fits inside his cap that vocalizes the pitch selection to him. The catcher also has an earpiece so he can hear what he sent to verify it. They can also have one defender other than the pitcher with an earpiece, usually the shortstop.

It replaces the old system of having the catcher signal the pitcher with finger movements between his legs, which can be picked up by a runner on second base, or by someone in the outfield seats, which would be illegal.

Sometimes the pitcher has a transmitter as well, but not many pitchers call their own pitches these days.

[OAITW r.2.0]

5. No. I don't think so.

It represents direct control from the bench. No more catcher/pitcher control. Management controls the pitch.

[Wounded Bear]

6. Well, they usually say that the catcher "calls" the game...

but yeah, he looks to the bench quite often before he does.

The electronic communication is totally on the field between the players, unlike in football. At least that's how it is supposed to be. But you often see the camera cut to the bench and the manager or one of the coaches is touching his chin, nose, ear, etc in sequence, obviously some kind of signal.

[OAITW r.2.0]

7. So it's pitcher/catcher comms?

I'm ok with that. Not ok with management trying to control the situation,

[Wounded Bear]

8. Yes, catcher to pitcher with one other receiver on the field...

I generally watch over 150 games a year and they have discussed this in detail over the last two seasons at least.

[OAITW r.2.0]

9. There you go....lifelong baseball fan. Player in my formative years, lifelong Red Sox fan. And I am only aware of this

bow.


That's why I love waking up everyday.

[Wounded Bear]

10. Glad to share the info...nt