Pitch Selection: Teams analyze batter tendencies and historical data to guide pitchers on which pitches to throw in specific situations. For example, data may reveal a batter’s weakness against high fastballs, influencing the pitcher’s choice
Defensive Shifts: Data on a batter’s hitting patterns allows teams to position fielders strategically. This is known as a defensive shift, where infielders and outfielders are placed in spots where the batter is most likely to hit the ball
Bullpen Management: Managers use data on pitcher fatigue, matchups, and opposing batters to decide when to pull a pitcher and bring in a reliever. This helps optimize performance and reduce the risk of injury
Baserunning Decisions: Teams analyze data on opposing catchers’ throw times and pitchers’ delivery times to decide when to steal bases or take extra bases on hits. This helps increase the likelihood of successful steals and advancing runners
Pinch-Hitting Choices: Data is used to determine the best pinch-hitting options based on the opposing pitcher’s strengths and weaknesses. Managers can choose a hitter who has a higher probability of success in a specific matchup.
In-Game Adjustments: Real-time data, such as a pitcher’s velocity drop or a hitter’s swing changes, allows teams to make quick adjustments during the game. This can include altering the game plan to exploit newly observed weaknesses.
Risk Management: Teams use data to assess the risk of various in-game decisions, such as sending a runner home or attempting a squeeze play. By evaluating the potential outcomes, managers can make more informed choices that minimize risk and maximize reward.