The History of Baseball Training Tools

Baseball is well-known as America’s favorite pastime. This sport has stood the test of time and remains an American tradition. However, even though the game is roughly played the same as over 100 years ago, baseball training tools have evolved. Read here to learn more about this sport's equipment.

The Invention of Baseball

Many people credit the game to Abner Doubleday, a Civil War hero. They say he invented the game in 1839. However, that’s not entirely true. Many believe the game is a mashup of cricket and a game called rounders from England. Children and men played the games throughout the streets and several variations of the games came to be. A baseball club was formed in New York in 1845, which would involve writing down the rules. This laid the foundation for baseball, but baseball training tools didn’t exist yet.

Training the Players

There weren’t any training tools in the beginning. Instead, men trained for their baseball games the same way they would for any other game: practice. Men would play catch with a baseball, practice their swings, and play games with each other to get better. Seasoned players would pass along tips to new players on everything from stance to how to pitch the ball. This wouldn’t last long, though. According to Wikipedia, Hinton, an assistant professor until 1900, successfully introduced a pitching machine to the University of Minnesota.

Training Equipment

The introduction of the first pitching machine revolutionized baseball practice. Players could practice solo, ensuring ample time to perfect their swing. Soon after, batting cages were introduced to give every player more than ample practice time. Players no longer depended on the entire team to hone their skills. Pitching machines slowly improved, with modern machines having various pitching speeds to help players improve reaction time.

Innovative Tools

As technology advanced, so did baseball training equipment. For instance, arm action training kits and supplies are an excellent tool for softball and baseball pitchers. A supportive pitching sleeve, training balls, and belts go a long way in improving pitch shape and arm health for players.

Having the best equipment is crucial to ensuring players are always at their best, improving your game, and increasing your chances of winning. Our baseball pitching equipment is just what you’ve been looking for. Contact Pocket Path today to learn more.