‘MLB on TBS’ bridges traditional ballpark look with modern spin

The left side of the set features a giant LED wall that creates a window onto the field, using a background that can change to fit the current game.

Four 75-inch vertically mounted panels are used in this area for graphics, highlights and player stats, positioned in front of light faux stone slabs that break up the background behind.

Above each opening is a large multipane angled metallic panel that serves double duty as both a header element and creating the illusion of the studio being equipped with large, industrial doors that are opened to create the view.

Completing this look is the inclusion of faux gears on both the panels themselves and along the base of the faux stone support panels.

The doors, when viewed as a header element, serve as a way to draw the eye upward and then across the studio ceiling, where multiple rows of metallic girders are installed, linking both sides of the set to create a physical and metaphorical melding of style and structure.

Lighting the Field

The set is also equipped with color changing technology with two specific color schemes in mind — a light and bright scheme for daytime broadcasts and darker, richer hue for evening.

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The studio’s lighting design, from The Lighting Design Group, plays a crucial role in the overall look and feel. Lighting designer Niel Galen, project manager Michael Kemp, gaffer Thomas Harmon and programmer Dawn Borsella brought out the textures and surfaces of the set in their work on the project.

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This is particularly evident along the faux brick and stone walls, adding more character and depth through their lighting effects.

The metal trusswork that bridges the studio is also dotted with additional accent lights that conjure images of stadium lighting, while the floor becomes as much a part of the set design as the walls with the variety of accent lighting aimed at it and its unique graphic design that mimics that of a ballpark.

All told, some 380 light fixtures and 60 LED elements were used to illuminate the space.

Enhancing the Coverage

To capture the broadcast, TBS uses four cameras: two hard cams, a steady cam and a techno jib outfitted with virtual set tracking technology.

Example of augmented reality graphics in studio.

Example of augmented reality graphics in studio.

In addition to the virtual set extensions fed to the large video array behind the anchor desk, TBS also incorporates extensive use of augmented reality graphics to display player stats and branding, such as floating logos.

This technology has become a mainstay of Turner Sports, with extensive use during the “Inside the NBA” studio show and as insert graphics during games.

By combining traditional ballpark design elements with minimalist touches, viewers are able to feel like they are part of the action, connecting them closer to the sport.