Injuries are a serious concern in Major League Baseball and the officials are trying to find ways to safeguard pitchers from getting hit. Doug Fister, the Detroit Tigers right hander, was injured in Game 2 against the San Francisco Giants. Hat liners could be a possibility in the minors next season.
Dan Halem, the MLB senior vice president said that the safety issue was on a "fast track."
"Hopefully, we can come up with something. We're making progress."
He also said efforts were being made to get protective headgear for pitchers and Dr. Gar Green, the MLB medical director has had talks with companies about it. The issue will be discussed at the league's meetings in December.
A line drive caused a skull fracture and brain contusion to Brandon McCarthy, the Oakland pitcher last month. The league is now considering a cap liner with Kevlar, a high-impact material used by several NFL players as a body shield.
The Associated Press quoted Halem as saying after Brandon's injury: "After that, it kind of pushed up our timetable. We decided to fast track it. We think it's possible for 2013 in the minor leagues."
Halem added that it was important to have helmets which could withstand the force of a line drive travelling at a speed of 100 mph.
Fister was the latest victim to sustain an injury. Gregor Blanco's shot in the second inning of Game 2 caught Fister on the right side of the head. The impact was quite severe as the ball flew about 150 feet. Fister appeared unhurt though and continued playing.
Wearing helmets might not be easy for major league pitchers who are not accustomed to it besides it would need approval from the players' union.
Barry Zito, the Giants left-hand pitcher said: "I definitely think it's something worth exploring. We've had high-profile examples of those injuries lately, what happened with Brandon and then here in the World Series. You don't want it to be too drastic. Little things can affect a pitcher's delivery."
Brian Sabean, the Giants general manager said finding the right product was crucial. "It would depend on how intrusive it is. Pitchers would want it to be no irritant or agitant. The weight would be important."
Matt Cain, the Giants starting pitcher considers wearing a helmet safe for pitching. "We actually had a guy that was in our organization that wore a helmet. I mean, obviously it's not the best-looking thing. But safety-wise, I mean, obviously it's beneficial."
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