SMART BASEBALL The Story Behind the Old Stats that are Ruining the Game, the New Ones that are Running it, and the Right Way to Think About Baseball

The message of this audiobook by ESPN baseball analyst Keith Law is loud and clear: Like it or not, big data and statistical analysis are now essential in evaluating professional players. Mike Chamberlain narrates with a clear, resonant voice that is appropriately reminiscent of sports broadcasting. Law explains how traditional statistics like batting average, runs batted in, and pitcher wins are deeply flawed indicators of value and provides an overview of advanced metrics that more accurately evaluate and predict player performance. Law is prickly towards baseball writers and executives who adhere to the old ways, and Chamberlain captures his snark precisely. SMART BASEBALL is informative and enjoyable listening for the contemporary baseball fan. A.T.N. © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2017]