The question
The first pitch can shape the decisions that follow in an at-bat. With the Westfield Starfires, I worked on collecting and analyzing first-pitch outcome data to help coaches understand swing and take tendencies.
Building the data
I designed three data collection systems that tracked first-pitch outcomes. Structuring those observations made it possible to examine hitter and pitcher tendencies by count and situation.
From analysis to reporting
I analyzed the data for swing and take tendencies and delivered findings to the coaching staff. The work informed coaches’ in-game decisions about player aggression.
My contribution
My role combined designing the collection process, organizing the observations, and explaining the results to the people making decisions. The work was completed during my volunteer Sabermetrics Assistant role from May through August 2025.