Introducing Probability

Abstract

In Chapters 1 and 2, we discussed some methods for exploring baseball statistics. In Chapter 1, we focused on the relatively simple statistical models used in some popular tabletop games. In Chapter 2, we looked at graphical and descriptive methods that, while simple, are the fundamental tools and models used by all statisticians. In particular, Chapter 2 used the example of on-base percentage (OBP) data to describe and analyze the performance of AL hitters. With this basic knowledge, we know what’s being said, statistically speaking, when someone declares, “Roberto Alomar had a .422 on-base percentage in 1999.” We know that the value .422 is large relative to the entire distribution of OBPs. (See the stemplot of 1999 AL OBPs in Figure 2–3 of Chapter 2.)