Major League Baseball teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, have almost exclusively relied on the PitchCom device to relay information between the pitcher and catcher since it was approved for regular use in 2022.
While it has proven to be an effective method, the Miami Marlins generated plenty of buzz when they allowed coaches to call pitches from the dugout at the end of the 2025 season. The Colorado Rockies have since joined the trend, while other organizations appear to be testing the water as well.
According to Alden González of ESPN, the Dodgers have also started the practice of calling pitches from the dugout with their Class-A Minor League affiliates.
The New York Mets explored the concept in spring training. The Los Angeles Dodgers have begun utilizing the system at the Class A levels, according to sources.
The Dodgers having coaches call pitches from the dugout applies to their High-A Great Lakes and Single-A Ontario teams. If the system gets enough positive feedback, it’s reasonable to think some of the organization’s other Minor League affiliates could test the idea before potentially reaching the Majors.
The logic behind having coaches call pitches is to take some of the load off catchers, who already have to hit, throw and frame. Coaches may also be better suited to call pitches due to the vast amount of information they have, including scouting reports and real-time data.
With two Major League teams now utilizing the innovative approach, some believe it’s only a matter of time before the remaining 28 clubs follow suit.
MLB extends partnership with PitchCom
Last November, MLB announced a six-year extension with PitchCom to continue their working relationship. The new league-wide agreement amounts to the patented pitch-calling system being provided to every Major League team and Triple-A affiliate through at least the 2031 season.
“We appreciate the trust that MLB has shown in PitchCom in extending our relationship. With MLB leading the way on technology, now every major professional league using in-game electronic communication relies on PitchCom to uphold competitive integrity and enhance the pace of play,” co-owner of PitchCom John Hankins said in a statement.
“And soon PitchCom will be standard equipment for all teams competing in the World Baseball Classic.”
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