A new study by ophthalmologist Dr. Daniel Laby published in the journal Scientific Reports is the first to “demonstrate the relationship between basic visual function and batting performance” within a large cohort of professional baseball players.
Those in the top 20% of visual ability had a walk rate—as defined by base on balls per plate appearance—that was 11.6% better than those in the bottom 20%. Hitters with better vision scores were more selective about their decision to swing at pitches both in and out of the zone, which the authors theorize “allows the batter to me more discerning and careful, only swinging at pitches that he is sure he can hit.”
The research included 585 pro players from five MLB organizations and used the OptimEYEs iPad vision test. That exam, which is administered on two tablets four meters apart, asks participants to swipe on one tablet in response to what is seen on the distant tablet. It tests not just one’s visual acuity but also contrast sensitivity and presentation time to replicate the quick decision-making needed to hit a big league fastball.
OptimEYEs was created by Laby and optometrist Dr. David Kirschen, through their company, 20over8. Laby has earned six World Series rings through his work consulting with the Red Sox, Astros and Cubs and has advised the Israeli national baseball team that recently qualified for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Vision training has become a popular tool among MLB hitters in recent years.
