Welcome
To the second issue of Unexpected Points Added. This week's issue is centered around a couple of research pieces, a tech startup, and data ethics for deliberation.
If you have a favorite source I should review for the next issue, please share! I'll give you a shoutout and come up with a sports analytics acronym based on your name. That sounds fun!
This Week's Lineup
Are MLB Relievers Wilder Upon Entry?
Ben Clemens investigates if pitchers have less command when they enter a game. He reviews walk rates on the first batter faced versus the rest of the batters faced to draw a conclusion. The result? A subtle surprise.
Tech Startup > Team Analytics Department?
Zelus Analytics has taken a different approach to its business model. By relying on a cost-sharing model in which a limited number of teams in different leagues can use its platform. It sets limits for teams it will work with by division or league, so the team has a competitive advantage—plenty of good discussion about what the future holds throughout.
NBA MVP Candidate Availability Discovery
How much does availability matter when it comes to the MVP race? Owen Phillips reviews availability data on MVP candidates over time. One trend? Load management is reducing played minutes for candidates as a percentage of their team minutes over time. A few great visualizations and other injury-related content included.
Who Owns Athletes’ Health Data?
The boom in data collection around athletes is starting to raise ethical and legal questions. In the US, like most internet data privacy, regulations are nonexistent. Ultimately, who gets to own the athletes' data? Will teams and leagues use the data against their players in negotiations? Many ethical questions remain unsolved.
The Ethical Use Of Data And Analytics
Sticking with the data ethics theme, the much beleaguered Houston Astros provides a starting point for discussing what is crossing the line in sports and sports analytics to gain an edge. Now that we know it's easy to succumb to this temptation, what actions can be put in place to prevent it from happening in the future?
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Unexpected Points Added is curated and maintained by Patrick Hayes. If you have questions or suggestions for the newsletter, just reply to this email. I answer every single one.