Case Studies

Caught Stealing Pro100™ – Game-Changing IoT-Enabled Biometric Sensor for Baseball Catchers

Client: Caught Stealing LLC

Expertise: Product Design, Product Development, Embedded Sensor Systems, Biometric Data Collection, Wireless & IoT Integration, Compliance

The Challenge

Caught Stealing LLC came to Southwest Engineering Concepts (SOENCO) with a bold vision: to reinvent how baseball catchers are evaluated by creating a high-precision IoT wearable device that could replace unreliable hand-timed measurements with scientifically accurate biometric tracking.

Their goals were ambitious. They wanted a connected system capable of collecting four key performance metrics—pop time, exchange time, velocity, and throwing distance—with unprecedented accuracy, and delivering real-time feedback to athletes and coaches via a wireless app. The device also had to be rugged, lightweight, and wearable on or off the field.

Our Approach: Full-Cycle Product Design & IoT Development

Our product development team took this project from concept through to a production-ready IoT system. Collaborating closely with the client, we focused on embedded sensor integration, low-power wireless connectivity, and cloud-enabled data transmission.

We designed compact, lightweight sensors embedded into wrist straps worn by catchers and infielders. The devices are engineered with aerospace-grade technology capable of capturing high-speed movements with millisecond precision. Our team ensured the form factor was athlete-friendly and mechanically robust for high-impact sports environments.

Key development milestones included:

1. Sensor selection and integration for acceleration, velocity, and distance tracking
2. Prototyping and testing of embedded electronics and IoT connectivity
3. Mechanical design for comfort and durability during gameplay
4. Firmware development for real-time processing and secure wireless data streaming
5. Companion mobile app integration and cloud-based player profile connectivity (iOS)

Through several iterations and field tests, we fine-tuned the device to meet the highest standards for IoT-enabled performance monitoring.

The Result: The Caught Stealing Pro100™

The final product, the Caught Stealing Pro100™, is a patented connected wearable sensor that delivers the most accurate pop and exchange times ever recorded in baseball. Data is collected in real-time and uploaded to the athlete’s private profile via the IoT-enabled mobile app, creating a transparent, unbiased evaluation system.

Key Features:

1. Pop times recorded to the millisecond
2. Throwing distance measured down to the inch
3. Average velocity tracked in MPH
4. Wireless, real-time data streaming to app and coach dashboards
5. Fully mobile and connected — can be used anywhere, even outside regulation fields

The Impact

The Pro100™ is now used by catchers across the country to build IoT-based performance profiles and share verified metrics with college recruiters and scouts. By eliminating human error and bias, the product has leveled the playing field for athlete visibility and recruitment.

Players also save thousands in showcase fees, self-recording and submitting verified performance data through the cloud-connected app.

For SOENCO, this project highlights our full-spectrum capabilities — from product conceptualization and industrial design to embedded IoT systems and mobile/cloud integration — showing how connected product development can revolutionize sports technology.