The Statcast system – Doppler radar and high-definition optical cameras – is installed in every major league park. Since 2015, Major League Baseball has tracked movement in a baseball game at 30 frames per second. For example, on any pitch Statcast records more than 600 measurements, which over a season means four billion data points.
This deluge of information means there are more ways to measure and evaluate players. Critics say it detracts from the enjoyment of baseball. But for the average fan, data can mean richer narratives. Did Scott Schebler’s shoulder injury lower the velocity of his throws from the outfield?