On the margin and above the rim

Statistician Bill James introduced quantification concepts known as 'sabermetrics. to the sport of baseball. Before these new models, aggregation of results such as batting average, home runs, wins for pitchers, and errors were baselines to determine market value of baseball players. Since 1977, when James' Baseball Abstract first outlined these principles, the new ways of evaluating players, based on calculations relying on weighted averages and ratios rather than simple sums, have changed much of both the business aspect and actual game play. Simply, there were new, reliable ways to determine who was really clutch, and which situations called for certain tactics. By definition, no game can ever be played in the vacuum of a spreadsheet. However, bringing economics optimization theory has turned conventional wisdom on its head in all sports.

Yesterday, this piece regarding Kobe Bryant's infidelity illustrates the sort of Jamesian analysis. Well done, Timothy Burke, et alia. Anytime science triumphs over ignorance, everyone benefits.

Happy Christmas to all. Remember the neediest.