Effectively Wild: A FanGraphs Baseball Podcast cover image

Effectively Wild: A FanGraphs Baseball Podcast

Effectively Wild Episode 1222: Testing the Balls and Beating the Bookies

May 26, 2018
Ben Lindbergh and Jeff Sullivan banter about the Red Sox designating Hanley Ramirez, comparing Mookie Betts to Barry Bonds, a listener's real-world use of tOPS+, intentional plays in baseball, and the impact of baseballs on the home run surge. They also discuss betting on baseball and the historical aspects and future of baseball betting.
01:37:52

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Changes in the baseball, including a decrease in air resistance, have contributed to the increase in home runs in MLB.
  • The complex nature of baseball, including factors like player aging patterns and the composition of the league, can shape eras of the game.

Deep dives

The MLB report on the differences in baseballs

has confirmed that the ball is indeed different and is responsible for the increase in home runs. The report, which was conducted by scientists chaired by Alan Nathan, found that the decrease in air resistance is the main factor behind the increase in home runs. The report also suggested that changes in the surface roughness of the baseball and the center of gravity may contribute to the decrease in air resistance. MLB has made several recommendations to monitor and standardize the baseballs going forward, including monitoring the temperature and humidity in which the balls are stored, reviewing the specifications of the balls, conducting aerodynamic testing, and ensuring consistent application of the mud rubbed on the balls. The report provides a greater understanding of the changes in the ball and opens the door for MLB to make informed decisions about the future of the baseball and the desired level of home run rates in the game.

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