Baseball is a classic sport steeped in tradition and emotion. Every game component has its charm, from the crack of the bat to the fragrance of freshly cut grass.
However, as the game evolves and new technologies emerge, some traditionalists are left wondering: can pitchers wear sunglasses on the mound?
According to official baseball rules, no regulation says a pitcher can’t wear sunglasses while pitching. The only reason an umpire would object to the pitcher wearing them is if they are distracting to the batter or umpire due to their color or the brightness they emit.
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of pitchers wearing sunglasses on the field and see if it’s time for Major League Baseball to adjust its rules and allow pitchers to protect their eyes from the sun.
Pitchers and Sunglasses Through History
In 1882, a pitcher named Paul Hines was the first Major League Baseball player that wore sunglasses on the field.
Hines was a big-time star for the Providence Grays! Not only did Hines wear the first pair of sunglasses on a b-ball field, but he also earned baseball’s first Triple Crown (most home runs, runs batted in, and batting average) and performed the game’s first unassisted triple play.
Flip-up sunglasses were popular among Major League Baseball players in the 1980s and 1990s.
The player can wear these sunglasses with the shades down when the sun is bothering them and with the shades up when the sun is not in their line of sight.
Some baseball purists believe that Ted Williams, the great, was the first to use flip-up sunglasses.
“Flips” are not as popular as they once were, although a few players still wear them occasionally.
Sunglasses are helpful for more than just shielding the players’ eyes from the sun. They also protect the players’ eyes from the dirt and dust that is frequently thrown around on the baseball field.
Many Major League Baseball players use sunglasses as a fashion statement as well as for eye protection.
Looking “cool” and stylish in front of their fans boosts players’ confidence. The classic saying “look good-feel good” holds here.
Many athletes also have lucrative endorsement deals with sunglasses firms, allowing them to look nice while padding their pockets.
Pros and Cons of Wearing Sunglasses as a Pitcher
One of the most significant advantages of pitchers wearing sunglasses is increased vision.
The glare from the stadium lights and the strong sun can make it difficult for pitchers to see the catcher’s signals and the strike zone.
This can result in missed pitches, mistakes, and frustration. Sunglasses can assist in minimizing glare and increase optical acuity for pitchers, resulting in better accuracy and control on the mound.
Another benefit of sunglasses is that they shield the pitcher’s eyes from dangerous UV radiation.
Sun exposure can cause eye damage and raise the incidence of cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and other eye problems over time.
Using sunglasses, pitchers can protect their eyes and lessen the danger of long-term injury.
Finally, sunglasses can assist a pitcher in remaining calm and concentrated on the b-ball game.
The bright sun and hot temperatures can cause discomfort and fatigue, making it difficult for pitchers to perform at their best. Sunglasses can help reduce glare and provide shade, helping the pitcher stay comfortable and focused throughout the game.
Many pitchers believe sunglasses impair their visual depth perception. Anything that impairs the pitcher’s vision in any way is a major disadvantage for them.
Pitchers must clearly see the catcher’s signs and their target (the catcher’s mitt).
Why Don’t Pitchers Wear Sunglasses More Often?
There are numerous reasons why pitchers never wear sunglasses.
First, sunglasses are unnecessary because most baseball games are played at night.
Furthermore, even when baseball games are played during the day, the pitcher is never directly facing the sun.
Sure, a pop fly may be hit in the infield occasionally, but those plays are usually made by the other infielders rather than the pitcher.
Who Benefits the Most from Sunglasses in Baseball?
Outfielders benefit the most from sunglasses because the bulk of pop flies are hit to the outfield. Trying to catch a high-fly ball in direct sunlight may be a terrifying experience for an outfielder.
Wearing sunglasses allows outfielders to keep sight of the ball even in bright sunlight!
Although they may not receive as many pop-ups as outfielders, many infielders like to wear sunglasses.
Infielders frequently need to respond swiftly to lightning-fast line drives or powerful ground balls. However, sun glare would obstruct the infielders’ eyesight and reduce their response time.
Even a minor delay in reaction time caused by the sun is detrimental for an infielder. There is no way to know how many player injuries have been avoided as a result of sunglasses, although it is most likely a significant number.
Top 3 Sunglasses for Pitchers (All Are Tested)
Choosing the correct pair of baseball sunglasses might mean the difference between success and failure on the field.
Clear vision is vital for fielding success on the bases and at the plate. Those who refuse to wear sunglasses or who do not properly select the best baseball sunglasses will never reach their full potential.
Though wearing the right sunglasses won’t turn a beer league softball player into Cody Bellinger, it will make it simpler for that player to perform at his or her best on the field.
1. Oakley Radar EV Path
These Oakley baseball sunglasses are unquestionably some of the most stylish on the market. These Oakleys are for you if you want to look good while making plays on the diamond.
Among the features are:
- UV protection layer
- Plastic lenses with polarization
- Plastic framework
- Carrying case.
- Prescription-ready lenses
Measurements:
38 mm width, 138 mm bridge, with 128 mm arm.
Those who follow the sunglasses industry are quick to sing these Oakley Radar EV Path lenses’ praises.
These sunglasses are the industry standard for performance, with a cutting-edge design, tall lenses, and an extended vertical perspective. Baseball sunglasses don’t get any cooler than this.
2. Oakley Flak 2.0 XL
The lens width on these matte black and Prizm grey baseball sunglasses are 59 mm.
The lenses are non-polarized and have a UV protection coating. The shades come with a SI Half Jacket 2.0 that allows the lenses to be easily replaced, allowing you to adjust as the light intensity increases or lowers.
Additional features include:
- A big frame that can accommodate even the largest of heads.
- Unobtanium ear socks that stay snug on the head even when sweating
- The frame is lightweight and intended to last a lifetime.
- High Definition Optics improves peripheral vision.
XYZ Optics technology ensures crystal-clear vision, allowing you to give your best on the field without having to worry about your shades.
In a nutshell, these baseball sunglasses are ideal for competitive players who need to see everything around them clearly. The lenses of the Flak 2.0 XL even have a curvature to protect against wind, sun, and physical damage.
3. RIVBOS Polarized Sports Sunglasses
These polarized baseball sunglasses have a light frame and are stress resistant, very flexible, and made to endure hammering without breaking.
Strap on these shades, slide and dive on the field, and you’ll discover they’re scratch and break resistant.
Among the features are:
- TR90 frame with polarized polycarbonate lens
- Mirror finish
Above all, baseball players adore these sunglasses because they have stress-resistant, very flexible frames that can withstand significant pressure without breaking.
These are the ultra-durable, expertly-engineered baseball sunglasses you need to see clearly, look stylish, and perform to your full potential.
