The Blue Jays’ Kevin Pillar is a polarizing figure. Many believe that he is one of the best defensive centre fielders in the game, while others question whether his frequent “Superman” dives are really necessary. Even measures such as UZR/150 and DRS have a human – and therefore subjective – component, and as such are subject to debate.
Fortunately, a (relatively) new tool has emerged that allows for an almost-completely objective analysis of Pillar and other fielders. The Statcast Catch Probability calculation uses high-speed cameras and radar to determine two variables: how far the fielder had to travel, and how long he had to get there.