Cincinnati Reds should petition MLB to allow more technology in the dugout
The Cincinnati Reds have an opportunity to level the MLB playing field by focusing on technology for all.
The Cincinnati Reds should steal an idea from the parity riddled NFL and suggest that teams be allowed tablets on the bench full-time. The Reds were part of a pilot program at the end of the 2015 season. Right now, technically, no technology is allowed on the MLB benches. It is cart blanche in the clubhouse, but there are restrictions on the bench.
Ever wonder why the NFL has been more successful than other professional sports leagues in achieving a level of parity? Look at how the NFL runs it’s shop. They have the salary cap and allow any innovation that levels that playing field.
Right now, MLB teams that hire extra coaches to disseminate information to the players more efficiently have an advantage. The smaller market teams have to rely on elite players maturing at the same time and a little bit of luck. The Kansas City Royals won the World Series and now are sliding back down to mediocrity.
There are a few innovations that might help. Beyond the modified salary cap and draft regulations in place, MLB could instigate a neutral instant replay instigator system, similar to what the NFL does in the last two minutes of the halves. They could also allow more liberal player exchanges between the minors and the major league rosters.
Technology is the great equalizer and the Cincinnati Reds need all of the help that can get during this rebuild.
Who better than a bunch of millennials to take advantage of new technology? The Reds are just a year or two away from being the youngest team in MLB at the rate they are going. Right now they are the eighth youngest team, but should get closer to MLB leading Tampa Bay Rays as the rebuild continues.
Allowing tablets into the dugout would mean that the players could watch videos and read scouting reports all game long. Isn’t that what millennials are all about? Add a social media function and the American born team members will be as happy as happy gets.
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This is more than just making players better and games more even. This is also about closing the gap on luxury items. If you offer state of the art tablets and real-time social media interactions with the fans, then the talent will find its way to you.
There is still much to tease out in this idea. I am sure there are plenty of people who know exactly what to do. Now the Reds just need to work on that sports network.
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