Image via mlb.com
Fans of baseball will now be able to experience what it is like to compete in a Home Run Derby. T-Mobile is using virtual reality at this year’s All-Star Game and Home Run Derby to put fans in the batter’s box. “We’re taking the Derby out of the ballpark and letting fans step up to the pate with 2015 Champion Todd Frazier in a first of its kind VR experience for the Home Run Derby…” said John Legere president and CEO of T-Mobile.
The VR experience will allow fans to step into the shoes of Todd Frazier, last year’s Home Run Derby winner, and see what it is like to hit home runs. Fans can share their scores on social media and compete with their friends in the game. The experience will be available at the Fan Fest in San Diego during All-Star week, and is also available at T-Mobile stores across the country.
Another part of the the Home Run Derby is fans having more access then ever through the player Social Lounge. It will allow fans to gain behind the scenes looks, listen to player commentary and more through MLB’s social media accounts.
The use of virtual reality and social media may spark a larger movement of increasing the fan experience at games and special events. Much like the VR access planned for Rio and the VR experience given to fans at the UEFA Champions League final. All of these promote more fan involvement and a focus on putting fans first. Someday we may be watching all the games through virtual reality instead of in a stadium or on TV.
The Home Run Derby is scheduled for July 11th in San Diego at Petco Park, viewers at home can see it on ESPN. The All-Star game is scheduled for July 12th at Petco Park and viewing will also be available on ESPN.
