Short Wave Climate Change + Baseball = More Home Runs
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Mar 25, 2025 
Frederic Bertley, CEO of COSI and an expert in science communication, joins to explore the fascinating intersection of baseball and physics. He discusses how climate change is impacting gameplay, specifically increasing home run distances as pitch speeds rise. Bertley dives into the science of hitting home runs, emphasizing the importance of angle and energy transfer. He also highlights the significance of precision hitting over home runs, drawing intriguing parallels with academic success. It's a must-listen for sports fans and science enthusiasts alike!
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Climate Change's Impact on Baseball
- Warmer air, less dense than cold air, lets baseballs travel faster.
- This leads to faster pitches and more home runs due to climate change.
Pitch Types and Home Runs
- Fastballs are generally better for home runs due to higher velocity transfer upon hitting.
- Curveballs can also lead to home runs depending on the spin imparted.
Launch Angle and Home Runs
- A 45-degree launch angle optimizes range for a baseball, like any projectile.
- Hitting a home run also depends on the specific ballpark dimensions.