Baseball Brainstorm: Head Protection for Pitchers

Oakland A's pitcher Brandon McCarthy suffered a skull fracture the other night at the Coliseum when he was hit in the head by a line drive. Fortunately, he is slowly recovering after surgery, but it was a frightening moment. I got to wondering why equipment manufacturers could not design a hat or helmet that would protect pitchers' heads without hindering their pitching. With the strong, lightweight materials now available, it seems like a literal no-brainer to come up with a comfortable skullcap for pitchers. It doesn't have to be a clunky helmet like batters wear. Any ideas out there, inventors? Put your thinking caps on.

Comments

[ian butler]

I was thinking the same thing when I saw the video of Brandon McCarthy getting hit. May I suggest the Charles Owen Dressage riding helmet:

http://www.equestriancollections.com/product.asp?groupcode=CW60006

It is described thusly:

The Charles Owen Hampton Riding Helmet is covered with the best Italian velvet. The peak is gently rounded to flatter the face and shade the eyes. The Hampton is equipped with an adjustable deerskin harness, made from stay soft leather and reinforced with nylon for additional strength, security, and durability. This lovely helmet is lined with luxurious gold stain and has a rich black velour headband for the utmost comfort and softness against the skin.