Mathletics: How Gamblers, Managers, and Fans Use Mathematics in Sports, Second Edition

Mathletics uses math to improve performance and predict outcomes in professional sports, providing practical skills to enhance understanding and enjoyment of favorite sports and gain an edge in winning bets.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 608 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2022
Publisher: Princeton University Press

Mathletics is a groundbreaking book that delves into the fascinating world of mathematics and its application in professional sports. Written by renowned sports analyst and mathematician Dr. John Ehlers, this second edition offers a comprehensive exploration of the mathematical methods top coaches and managers employ to evaluate players and enhance team performance. Whether you're a passionate fan or a math enthusiast, Mathletics provides you with the practical skills and insights you need to deepen your understanding and enjoyment of your favorite sports.

In this revised and updated edition, Dr. Ehlers presents fresh data, new players, and teams, as well as expanded chapters on soccer, e-sports, golf, volleyball, and gambling. He sheds light on various statistical techniques, such as Calcuttas analysis, Bayesian inference, ridge regression, and more, demonstrating how they can be applied to improve performance and predict outcomes in professional sports.

One of the key insights offered by Mathletics is that baseball teams should almost never bunt. By analyzing the probabilities and expected outcomes of different batting strategies, Dr. Ehlers demonstrates that the bunt is a less effective offensive play than commonly believed. This revelation challenges traditional coaching strategies and emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making in the world of professional sports.

Similarly, Mathletics sheds light on the unfairness of football overtime systems. By examining the distribution of scores and the likelihood of winning or losing in overtime, Dr. Ehlers shows that current systems favor teams that possess a greater advantage in the regular season. This analysis highlights the need for reform and suggests that alternative systems, such as those used in basketball or hockey, could provide a more equitable and exciting outcome for games.

Furthermore, Mathletics challenges the conventional notion that points, rebounds, and assists are sufficient metrics to determine the best player in the NBA. By employing advanced statistical analysis, Dr. Ehlers demonstrates that a more comprehensive approach is necessary to evaluate a player's impact on the game. This includes factors such as defensive efficiency, shot selection, and overall team performance.

Mathletics is not only a valuable resource for sports enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in applying mathematics to real-world problems. The book provides a comprehensive introduction to statistical concepts and techniques, making it accessible to readers with a basic understanding of mathematics. It also offers practical tips and strategies for analyzing sports data and making informed decisions based on mathematical principles.

In conclusion, Mathletics is a groundbreaking book that revolutionizes our understanding of mathematics and its application in professional sports. Written by a renowned sports analyst and mathematician, this second edition offers a wealth of insights and practical skills that will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of your favorite sports. Whether you're a fan, a coach, or a manager, Mathletics provides you with the tools you need to succeed in the world of professional sports. So, grab a copy of this book and start unlocking the secrets of mathematics in the world of sports today!

Weight: 854g
Dimension: 156 x 236 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691177625