The Science of Baseball: The Math, Technology, and Data Behind the Great American Pastime

by Will Carroll, Peter Gammons (Foreword by)

Overview

In The Science of Baseball, sportswriter and injury expert Will Carroll shows how understanding the science behind the Great American Pastime helps fans appreciate its nuances and that it enhances, not detracts from the greatest game ever invented. Carroll, as well as several experts via interviews, covers topics like what makes the ball break, bounce, and fly; how material science and physics work together to make the bat function; how hitters use physics, geometry, and force to connect; sensors and cameras; injuries; and much more.  

Baseball aficionados and science geeks alike will better appreciate the game--no matter which teams are playing--after reading this comprehensive book!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781510768970
Publisher:	Skyhorse
Publication date:	03/15/2022
Pages:	216
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

Will Carroll writes about sports science, sports medicine, and sports. His “Under The Knife” column was called “essential reading” by Hall of Famer Peter Gammons. Author of two award-winning books (Saving The Pitcher and The Juice), Carroll currently writes about injuries for his own newsletter and consults with several professional teams and players on sports science. His work has been seen on ESPN, Sports Illustrated, Baseball Prospectus, and the New York Times. He lives in Indianapolis and is @injuryexpert on most platforms.

Table of Contents

Foreword Peter Gammons v

Introduction xi

1 The Ball 1

2 The Bat 13

3 Hitting 27

4 Pitching 43

5 The Field 63

6 Fielding 77

7 Baserunning 91

8 Training and Development 101

9 Scouts, Umps, and the Old School 115

10 The Mind and Body 127

11 Injuries 139

12 The Cheats 151

13 Analytics 165

14 The Future 179

About the Author and Acknowledgments 187

Editorial Reviews

“My favorite baseball writing is discovering things hidden in plain sight.  Carroll gives us a comprehensive look at the game, from the makings of the baseball itself, to the benefits (and dangers) of analytics.   The game has changed dramatically in the last decade, yet so many traditional baseball questions remain unanswered. Carroll asks these questions, while easing your fear of a robot ump future.”
--Brian Kenny, MLB Network and author of Ahead of the Curve

“As The Science of Baseball notes, baseball is a game of science, but it’s also one of magic. To many of us, the magic of the sport is in the science. This book is an intriguing look at how this beautiful game where the impossible can happen is rooted in rhyme and reason. Carroll adeptly explores the physical and statistical phenomena of baseball, undertaking aspects of the game that could be considered dry in an engaging and thought-provoking way. A must-read for any baseball fan who has ever had to explain why baseball’s slower pace belies its complexity.”
--Kavitha A. Davidson, award-winning sportswriter and podcaster

"For years, Will Carroll has been ahead of the game. No matter the subject, Will is always thinking ahead and knows of the next big thing before any of the rest of us. In The Science of Baseball, Will brings you inside those conversations that are usually held in bars  and hotel lobbies at baseball's most high-profile events. Reading the book is like sitting in the corner of the booth with the brightest people in the game and just shutting up and listening. It's a fascinating read that touches on every part of not just the modern game of baseball, but of the future of the sport."
--C. Trent Rosecrans, The Athletic and BBWAA President, 2021

"There’re not a lot of writers that understand baseball more than Will.  The Science of Baseball really showcases Will’s extensive knowledge of the game and breaks down the science behind the sport we all love.  This is a great read for baseball fans looking to understand the game from a scientific perspective.”
--Mike Reinold, Chicago White Sox Sr. Medical Advisor and President of the American Physical Therapy Association

"Will Carroll does what he has been doing for years: Tackling interesting, sometimes complicated baseball topics and breaking them down into digestible pieces. The Science of Baseball will engage you and make you smarter about the game.”
--Jon “Boog” Sciambi, Chicago Cubs and ESPN play by play announcer

From the Publisher