(*) FACTS/FLUKES: Pitcher performance via PITCHf/x data

(A version of this article appeared in the May 16 edition of Sports Weekly)

One of the newer frontiers in baseball analysis is PITCHf/x, the system installed in every major league ballpark that collects data on every pitched ball. This voluminous resource is a treasure trove for researchers, and analysts inside and outside the game are finding more use for it each year.

Much like more traditional skill measurements such as walk and strikeout rates and home run-to-fly-ball ratio, the data on a pitcher's velocity and movement can help validate or invalidate his ERA and WHIP.

As an introduction to this type of analysis, here are nine pitchers who improved statistically during the 2011 season, via their 1H/2H splits. Using PITCHf/x...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From Facts & Flukes

Is Cole Ragans a legitimate ace? We'll examine the skills and luck factors for Ragans, Josh Lowe, Gavin Williams, Matt Wallner, and Seranthony Domínguez.
Sep 5 2024 3:10am
Corbin Carroll has had a disappointing 2024 season, but at least his power has returned in the second half. How are things under the hood? Plus, Raisel Iglesias, Willy Adames, Ezequiel Tovar, and Carlos Estévez.
Sep 4 2024 3:03am
Jackson Merrill runs hot, David Bednar looks for better results, Spencer Steer cools off lately, Paul Sewald loses some skills, and Luis García increases his R$.
Sep 3 2024 3:03am
If Royce Lewis stayed healthy, he could put up massive numbers. We'll look at the skills and luck factors for Lewis, Bryan Woo, Jose Siri, Osvaldo Bido, and Dylan Carlson.
Aug 29 2024 3:03am
After belting 40 HR in 2022 and 46 HR in 2023, Pete Alonso has 27 HR through 556 PA. How are things under the hood? Plus, Zac Gallen, J.D. Martinez, Michael Kopech, and Joey Bart.
Aug 28 2024 3:03am

Tools