Fox Sports is set to deploy a squadron of drones for the first time during the upcoming World Series. While drones have become familiar tools in live sports production, their entry into baseball’s Fall Classic marks a significant step forward. Previously, Fox had used drones during baseball games, most notably for coverage of the All-Star and Field of Dreams games. The network has also harnessed the power of drones for its broadcasts of the USFL since integrating them into its production toolkit back in 2015.

For the World Series, Fox’s innovative approach will employ a trio of compact drones to capture those thrilling moments on the diamond. These moments include relief pitchers making their way in from the bullpen, the warm-ups between innings, and the dramatic exit of pitchers from the mound. The drones have been custom-built in collaboration with Beverly Hills Aerials, and this company will be responsible for their operation. Fox has thoughtfully ensured that they will select the most suitable drone for the specific action they are capturing.

All three drones are of the FPV variety (first-person view), but at any given time, only one will be in the air. The skilled pilot will be positioned in the outfield, offering a prime vantage point either behind or between the bullpens. While the drones are equipped with 4K cameras, Fox will transmit 1080p HDR footage, ensuring that the high-quality visuals can also be enjoyed on jumbo screens inside the two stadiums.

The introduction of drones to the World Series coverage will complement Fox’s previously unveiled UmpCam, a unique camera that provides viewers with the umpire’s perspective from behind the home plate. Nestled in the umpire’s mask, the UmpCam offers an unparalleled view of the action, including ball and strike calls and up-close insights into those crucial big hits. In total, Fox will deploy 52 cameras throughout the World Series, including an overhead FlyCam, three DirtCams stationed near home plate, first base, and second base, 13 Super Motion cameras, and three RF cameras. To ensure an immersive audio experience, over 100 microphones will be strategically placed within each ballpark to capture every sound, bringing fans at home as close as possible to the electrifying atmosphere of the game.

The highly anticipated World Series is scheduled to kick off this Friday, October 27, at 8 PM ET as the Texas Rangers play host to the Arizona Diamondbacks in Game 1. Fox Sports’ innovative use of drones promises to provide viewers with a fresh and dynamic perspective on this baseball extravaganza.