Written by Mark BaileyBaseball fans, buckle up! If you’ve ever dreamt of smashing a baseball out of the park, Destin from “Smarter Every Day” and his pal Jeremy Fielding have taken it to the next level.
In their latest video, they set out to beat the major league home run distance record with pure engineering genius. And let me tell you, what they achieved is nothing short of jaw-dropping.
Alright, here’s the scoop. The current MLB home run record sits around 575-580 feet, depending on your source. Destin and Jeremy are on a mission to obliterate this record using a specially engineered setup that propels a bat at insane speeds.
Picture this: a three-phase generator, a massive motor, and a pulley system designed to send a baseball into the stratosphere.
Setting the Stage
The video starts with the guys setting up on a little league field, reminiscent of where many of us first fell in love with the game. They aim to launch baseballs over 600 feet, a distance so immense it might just land among the cows in the neighboring field. With Jeremy working on the technical side and Destin handling the logistics, they unload the gear and begin aligning their contraption.
Launch Angle and Bat Speed
Destin briefly touches on the science of the launch angle – that sweet spot that ensures the ball rockets out of the park. But their strategy? Point the bat at the fence and crank it up to insane speeds. They’re talking about a bat swinging at 200 miles per hour. Imagine standing on the pitcher’s mound with a 200-mile-per-hour projectile hurtling towards you. Yikes!
The First Swings
With everything set, they begin testing. The initial runs at 80 miles per hour are intense enough, but it’s clear they need to push harder. Jeremy realizes they’re not getting full power from their generator, leading to a fascinating dive into the difference between single-phase and three-phase power. They make the adjustments, and now it’s time to really let it rip.
Wooden Bats vs. Aluminum Bats
In their first full-power attempt, they obliterate a wooden bat. Literally. The bat snaps cleanly due to the stress at high speeds. Switching to aluminum bats, which can withstand more force, they prepare for the real show. Destin ramps up their protective measures, and it’s a good thing too. At full throttle, these bats are dangerous.
Breaking Records
After several attempts, they start hitting dingers that clear the fence with ease. Each crack of the bat sends a shiver down your spine, and the sound of the ball connecting is just music to a baseball lover’s ears. They ramp up the speed, aiming for that magical 100%. The bat breaks, again and again, but not before launching baseballs at unfathomable speeds.
The Grand Finale
Finally, after numerous trials, they hit a baseball that travels an astonishing 696 feet. Yes, you read that right – 696 feet! That’s beyond any record held in professional baseball. The bat flies further than Babe Ruth’s longest shot, and the baseball soars into legend.
Wrap Up
Destin and Jeremy’s adventure is a testament to the blend of science and sport, showing how engineering can push the limits of what’s possible. Watching them tinker, fail, and ultimately succeed is pure joy for any baseball fan. They don’t just break records – they smash them.
So, if you’re looking for a blend of technical wizardry and baseball magic, this is a must-watch. The excitement is contagious, and who knows? It might just inspire you to look at your favorite sport through the lens of science and innovation.