Wharton Moneyball How Analytics Changed the Soul of Baseball
Oct 22, 2025
Jane Leavy, an acclaimed baseball biographer known for her works on legends like Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle, shares fascinating insights on how analytics have reshaped baseball. She argues that data-driven decisions have stripped the game of its traditional narratives and fan connection. Leavy proposes reforms, such as allowing longer pitching starts and improving marketing strategies to re-engage younger fans. She also discusses the impact of technology on game pace and player access, offering bold ideas to revitalize the sport.
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Analytics Changed Baseball's Narrative
- Jane Leavy argues analytics destroyed baseball's classic narratives by reorienting priorities toward three true outcomes.
- She believes that shift pushed fans toward other sports because it removed the game's storytelling and surprises.
Pitching's New Rhythm Shrinks The Game
- Leavy says modern pitching—100 mph arms and many pitchers per game—has compressed and dehumanized baseball's rhythm.
- She contends this style is dangerous, overuses arms, and reduces on-field variety and drama.
Limit Active Pitchers To Protect Arms
- Leavy proposes reconfiguring pitching staffs with an NHL-style healthy scratch list and limiting active pitchers per game.
- Managers would choose 11–15 usable arms daily to nudge starters to go longer and protect relievers' health.
