【Media Coverage】VR Baseball Research Featured on BSN Niigata Broadcasting "Yunavi"
On October 27, 2025, our laboratory's research on baseball pitch selection ability using VR technolo
Research on Baseball Pitch Selection Using VR Technology Featured on BSN's Evening News Program "Yunavi"
On October 27, 2025, our laboratory's research on baseball pitch selection ability using VR technology was featured on BSN Niigata Broadcasting's evening news program "Yunavi" (aired at 18:15).
Interview Content
During this interview, Lecturer Ochi provided a detailed explanation of our recently published research, "Scientific Analysis of Baseball 'Pitch Selection Ability' Using VR Technology." The segment showcased actual VR equipment used for measuring pitch selection ability and clearly communicated the significance of this research.
This research developed a novel method to scientifically evaluate baseball batters' pitch selection ability (the ability to distinguish between strikes and balls) and demonstrated that pitch selection ability is closely related to actual batting performance. By utilizing VR technology, it has become possible to quantitatively evaluate pitch selection ability in an environment close to actual game situations.
Program Information
- Program: Yunavi
- Broadcasting Station: BSN Niigata Broadcasting
- Air Date: October 27, 2025 (Monday) 18:15~
- Interview Date: October 27, 2025
Related Research
For more details about this research, please see:
Broadcast Details
The program featured our research on baseball "pitch selection ability" against the backdrop of the ongoing Japan Series.
Key Points from the Broadcast:
- Core Research Findings: Lecturer Ochi explained, "Pitch selection ability used to be based on subjective perception by observers and players, but we have demonstrated that players with higher pitch selection ability also have better batting performance"
- VR Technology Application: The team converted actual pitching footage into VR images and conducted pitch judgment tests from the batter's perspective. A reporter who experienced the system commented, "There's a momentary sense of fear, but once you get used to it and realize it's VR, the fear disappears and you can concentrate on distinguishing the pitches"
- Scientific Discovery: The research discovered that players with better pitch selection ability have better batting performance, and the findings were published in an international sports science journal this month
- Practical Applications: Lecturer Ochi suggested the potential for training applications: "Students have told me that with VR, they can practice pitch selection in advance, which gives them confidence when stepping into the batter's box"
Properly distinguishing pitches in the batter's box appears to be a shortcut to improving batting performance.
Related Links:
- BSN Niigata Broadcasting "Yunavi" Broadcast Content: https://newsdig.tbs.co.jp/articles/-/2251853