This article by Paul DePodesta talks about his approach to the game of baseball. He makes a lot of sense. Baseball [is/has/always will be] a game of percentages. The funny thing is that most of the people in the game disagree on what the percentages are. Yes, clearly it makes sense to try and match your pitcher up against their batter, and if a guy has troubles with lefties, bring in a leftie. There are a lot of decisions that can be laid out just as simply, but the managers [don’t/can’t/won’t] take the time (should I bunt with a guy on first and none out?) so they go with their gut. Now, I’m not saying that numbers should completely rule the way a game is played by the manager, but numbers should be the basis for everything.

The A’s record stands on its own. Of course, once everyone starts doing the same things, the advantage is gone, and you’re back to a money game. Until that happens though, the A’s will be doing well (and the Dodgers, if the rumours are true)

Simpson’s quote of the day: “Arr, why buy a house, when ye can buy a house boat.” - Captain McAllister