More data/analysis to wonk out on...

sluggers said:

The PitchFX system uses three cameras.

This system uses one. Using one camera doesn't seem to produce valid data. I've got huge doubts that this device works.

The data doesn't make any sense. Look at the data for O'Toole. Her riseball has a spin of 1089 RPM, which is less than 20 RPS. The ball moves 2.9 inches up (again, we all know that this mean "above where the ball would be if it were thrown without any spin). She throws a curveball with even less spin and the ball moves up 3.5 inches.

Look at the Gorley data for fastball vs. drop ball. She throws a 62 MPH fastball, with 1415 RPM and gets .1 drop and 4 inches horizontal break. She throws a drop as the same speed, with 10% more spin, and suddenly the ball drops 2.1 inches, and a 4 inch horizontal break. That is a 2000% improvement...which is completely absurd.


PitchF/X





I can't figure out how the guy who wrote the article came up with his conclusions. I can't figure how he came up with the movement chart.

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Tatonka said:

But Ray (and I'm not disagreeing with you here) the analysis is at least based on quantifiable data and leads to some conclusions which seem to be in line with what most of us would assume. Yes, there can be additional factors influencing this movement as well. Seems to me that technology is bringing us closer. Perhaps the next step would be to find a way to overlay another set of data/values on each pitch to account for these other factors?

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. College coaches will be looking at data sheets along with pitching and hitting videos. Found a couple of guys that are getting some use out of it already,

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