The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the San Diego Padres in the ninth inning, securing their sixth win in seven games. Freddie Freeman hit two key home runs to seal the victory. With this result, the team moves to the top of the National League West Division, surpassing their direct rival in a duel that was decided in the final moments.
The technology behind Freddie Freeman's swing ⚾
Freeman's performance is no coincidence. The Dodgers use biomechanical analysis systems and real-time pitch data through tools like Rapsodo and TrackMan. This allows them to adjust wrist angle and batting timing based on the speed and spin of the fastball. The integration of artificial intelligence to predict pitch patterns has optimized swing selection in high-pressure situations, such as the ninth inning.
The science of not missing at the right moment 🤖
If the Dodgers made a YouTube tutorial on how to win close games, it would probably be titled How Not to Hit the Ball Until It's Necessary. While the Padres were getting ready to celebrate, Freeman decided a home run was more fun than going to extra innings. Technology helps, but in the end, the secret remains having a guy who doesn't read the scouting report and just thinks I'm going to hit it hard.