Fox Sports breaks new ground with drones in World Series coverage

Fox Sports has announced that it is introducing a new way to experience the World Series, and they did so by introducing new Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to their coverage when the Arizona Diamondbacks face off against the Texas Rangers tonight. This historic occasion marks the first time that drones will be incorporated into the World Series coverage, both for Fox Sports and Major League Baseball.

Fox Sports has previously utilized drones in their coverage of events like the All-Star and Field of Dreams, as well as during USFL play. Now, they are taking this technology to the grandest stage of them all, the World Series.

These UAVs are equipped with advanced video technology and are part of a larger arsenal of 52 cameras used by Fox Sports. Among these cameras are a FlyCam, three DirtCams, 13 Super Motion cameras, and three RF cameras. To enhance the viewer experience, there will also be a sensor attached to the plate umpire's mask, providing real-time confirmation of pitch calls – a recent innovation introduced during the American League division series.


The introduction of drones will offer viewers a unique perspective on the game. In addition to the typical ground-level shots of runners sliding into bases, fans will now get to see players from aerial viewpoints. Although this may not always capture the most thrilling moments, it's just the beginning for UAVs in the World Series, and their potential is bound to grow.

Fox Sports plans to utilize drones during the slower periods of the games. This includes capturing moments like pitchers leaving the mound, relievers entering the bullpen, and warm-up activities between innings. The aim is to keep viewers engaged and offer a fresh dimension to the game.

While Major League Baseball has seen its share of rule changes and innovations, including pitch clocks and larger bases, it may still be some time before we see drones providing close-up views of batters during critical moments.

Fox Sports, recognizing the importance of safety and careful integration of technology, is taking a cautious approach. Only one of the three first-person view UAVs, which are customized and operated by aerial service company Beverly Hills Aerials, will be airborne at any given time. These drones, along with their skilled pilots, will be strategically positioned behind outfield fences and around bullpen areas, equipped with 4K cameras and capable of transmitting 1080p HDR footage.

In keeping with the tradition of nicknames in baseball, Fox Sports and Beverly Hills Aerials have assigned special World Series monikers to each of their drones. As the World Series unfolds, viewers can expect to see "Gimbal Bee," "Hummingbird," and "Hummer Lite" hovering somewhere behind Rangers' right fielder Evan "Little Savior" Carter.

While this marks a significant leap forward in sports broadcasting technology, Fox Sports remains mindful of the responsibility that comes with using drones in a live sporting event. As the World Series begins, all eyes will be on these UAVs, watching to see how they elevate the viewing experience and capture the essence of this iconic baseball championship.