Robot throws ceremonial first pitch at D-backs game

In some little leagues, pitching machines are used. A robotic arm rears back and launches an arching pitch toward home plate.

The Arizona Diamondbacks jogged a similar pitcher out to the mound Wednesday to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before their game with the Washington Nationals. Except, this robot had a name, a t-shirt and other personification touches.

The robot’s name was Bruce, and he was a creation of Paradise Valley High School’s S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) program.

Bruce’s pitch kicked off a collaborative effort between the Diamondbacks, the high school, Chase and Insight, who are together launching a new program called the Science of Baseball.

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