Major League Baseball (MLB) has unveiled a new streaming service app for baseball fans through the Oculus Quest-supported virtual reality (VR) platform.
As part of the partnership, Oculus owners will be able to use their device to tune in and watch games as they unfold on MLB.tv. MLB.tv, a subscription service, will allow Oculus users to live stream out-of-market games moving forward as they push towards digitalisation.
The signing comes after Fox Sports announced that it will use the Unreal Engine to fill up empty stadiums during MLB broadcasts, blending reality, virtual reality, and animated graphics in a new way.
Having access to an Oculus set will grant fans some specific benefits, such as an opportunity to get advanced player tracking statistics from MLB Statcast.
Viewers will be able to analyze pitch locations thanks to the immersive 3D strike zone feature, allowing users a way to come up with more accurate statistics quicker. Being able to tap into MLB.tv with Oculus Rift will allow players to enjoy 360-degree video highlights, quickly reference MLB standings, or see score updates.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred said: “The executives, teams and MLB staff members were excited to expand the 2020 post-season and introduce new formats for baseball fans to enjoy. With some luck, the post season could look just as promising as fans expect it to be, and especially with partners such as ESPN and TBS. We look forward to a memorable Postseason concluding a year like no other and appreciate the continued partnership and enthusiasm of ESPN and TBS.”
MLBPA’s executive director, Tony Clark said: ” We hope to see a highly-competitive pennant races and some exciting playoff games to top the whole thing off, and as a precursor of next year’s season.”
