The MLB Home Run Derby and All-Star Game have, for years, served as de facto showcases for new broadcast tech, with ESPN advancing the use of 4D Replay cameras for immersive, 180-degree views of Derby swings this year. But the Midsummer Classic also is growing a reputation from new on-location innovations, too. Here’s a sampling:
The league installed its facial recognition ticketing tech, Go-Ahead Entry , for swift entry into Globe Life Field, the fifth ballpark now equipped.
The concourse showstopper was Adam, an automated bartender developed by Richtech Robotics . Though a bit slower than a human mixologist, the Rangers purchased Adam “as a guest experience,” Delaware North Assistant General Manger Greg Maass said. Adam has added AI functionality — conversing with customers, even dancing the YMCA — that can be turned on later.
Globe Life Field featured automation in other areas, too: a simpler automated pouring system called the Rotender; a popcorn and cotton candy dispenser; a robot recycler; and the first Amazon Just Walk Out stores for retail merchandise instead of concessions.
During the All-Star Game, MLB demoed OneCourt , a digital tablet that’s responsive to Statcast data and creates a tactile and haptic experience for blind and low-vision fans to follow the action.
Fans attending the draft were treated to a post-event drone show from Sky Elements Drones that lit up the sky with Rangers and All-Star Game logos, as well as baseball and Texas-themed characters.
