The other day Major League Baseball officially approved for use a protective “cap” for pitchers when they are on the mound pitching.
The cap has safety plates sewn into it to protect pitchers when balls are hit sharply back at them. The plates in the cap are designed to protect the forehead, temples and sides of the head.
The cap is still in the test phase, and pitchers at both the major and minor league level won’t be required to use it. Most pitchers agree it’s a good idea, as there have been some horrific incidents over the years, and players are only getting bigger and stronger.
But it seems that the hats, at this stage, aren’t especially comfortable to wear. The plates weigh an extra 6-7 oz, and protrude a fair bit, giving pitchers a bit of a “Charlie Brown” look.