Effectively Wild Episode 2319: Going By the Book

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In 'Bowling Alone', Robert D. Putnam presents extensive data showing how Americans have become disconnected from family, friends, neighbors, and democratic structures. He argues that this decline in social capital has significant negative impacts on physical and civic health. The book explores various factors contributing to this decline, including changes in work, family structure, suburbanization, and the influence of technology such as television and the internet. Putnam also discusses historical precedents and potential solutions for reviving civic engagement and social connections.

In 'Homestand', Will Bardenwerper delves into the world of small-town baseball, using it as a lens to explore the essence of America today. The book focuses on the story of the Batavia Muckdogs, a minor league team in New York that was shut down by Major League Baseball, and how the community rallied to keep baseball alive. Through this narrative, Bardenwerper examines the heart of small-town America and its enduring love for baseball.

The book tells the story of the Oakland Athletics' 2002 season, where General Manager Billy Beane and his assistant Paul DePodesta used advanced statistical analysis, known as sabermetrics, to assemble a competitive team despite a limited budget. The approach, pioneered by Bill James, focused on metrics such as on-base percentage and slugging percentage rather than traditional measures like batting average and runs batted in. This data-driven strategy allowed the Athletics to compete with teams having much larger payrolls, like the New York Yankees, and achieve significant success, including a 20-game winning streak and a playoff appearance.