Moneyball and Beyond from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Week 1

In this module we introduce the Moneyball story and explore the method used to test that story. We begin the process of replicating the moneyball test by establishing the relationship between team winning and and two performance statistics - on base percentage (OBP) and slugging percentage (SLG).

Week 2

In this module we estimate the relationship between MLB player salaries and their performance statistics, OBP (on base percentage) and SLG (slugging). The results appear to confirm the Moneyball story - OBP was undervalued relative to SLG prior to the publication of Moneyball, while after publication the relative significance is reversed.

Week 3

This module updates the analysis of Hakes & Sauer and estimates the rewards to OBP and SLG over the period 1994 -2015. In addition it shows how rewards can be related to individual components of SLG: walks, singles, doubles, triples, and home runs.

Week 4

This module introduces the concept of run expectancy, shows how to derive the run expectancy matrix and the calculation of run values based on an MLB dataset of all events in the 2018 season. Run values are calculated by event type (walks, singles, doubles, etc.) and by player.

Week 5

This module examines the concept of Wins Above Replacement (WAR) and shows how to calculate WAR based on batting performance. The relationship between play run values team win percentage and player salaries is then explored. Run values are shown to have a high degree of correlation with winning and with salaries. Run values can to a limited extent predict win percentage.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Emphasizes statistical analysis in professional sports, specifically baseball

Focuses on a real-world case study, the Moneyball story, which enhances relevance

Taught by Stefan Szymanski, a recognized expert in sports economics

Provides hands-on experience in calculating baseball performance statistics using Python

Suitable for learners interested in sports analytics, performance measurement, and data-driven decision-making

Requires familiarity with Python programming and basic statistics

Reviews summary

Solid python sports analytics

Learners say that Moneyball and Beyond is a great course to develop Python skills. Students especially praise the engaging assignments and interesting content regarding sports analytics. However, some learners say that this course is a poor fit if you are not already proficient in Python.

No baseball knowledge needed.

"Excellent course, really enjoyed it even as someone who doesn't follow baseball"

Engaging content and assignments.

"Was a very nice course and enjoyed it a lot!"

"An excellent way to develop Python skills to interesting topics."

"The content of the course is really interesting and very well explained."

Course assumes some Python knowledge.

"IF YOU ARE NOT AN EXPERT IN PYTHON I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS COURSE !!!"

"The code for the course DRAMATICALLY under uses the power of the libraries included (Pandas and Numpy)."

"So, if you are newer to Python, this course would be a little like trying to learn how to cook in an Italian style, by listening to someone read a recipe for canned spaghetti."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Moneyball and Beyond with these activities:

Review statistics principles

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Refresh your understanding of statistics principles to prepare for the course's emphasis on data analysis.

Browse courses on Statistics

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Review the concept of probability and distributions.
Practice calculating mean, median, and standard deviation.
熟悉假说检验 and confidence intervals.

Follow tutorials on Python for data analysis

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Develop your Python programming skills for data analysis, which is essential for the course.

Browse courses on Python

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Find tutorials on Python libraries for data manipulation and visualization.
Follow the tutorials and practice writing Python code.

Practice calculating baseball performance statistics

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Reinforce your understanding of baseball performance statistics by calculating them from raw data.

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Calculate on-base percentage (OBP) and slugging percentage (SLG) for a set of players.
Calculate wins above replacement (WAR) for a set of players.

Five other activities

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Build a baseball statistics database

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Create a database of baseball statistics to practice data analysis techniques used in the course.

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Collect data from publicly available sources.
Design a database schema to store the data.
Write queries to retrieve and analyze the data.

Participate in discussion forums

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Engage with classmates in discussions to clarify concepts, share insights, and learn from others.

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Post questions and share your understanding of the course material.
Respond to others' posts and provide feedback.

Create a presentation on the impact of Moneyball

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Enhance your communication and presentation skills by creating a presentation that summarizes the impact of Moneyball.

Browse courses on Moneyball

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Gather data and research on the impact of Moneyball.
Develop a clear and concise presentation outline.
Create visual aids and slides to support your presentation.
練習 your presentation and get feedback.

Write a blog post on Moneyball analysis

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Synthesize your understanding of Moneyball analysis by writing a blog post that explains the concepts and implications.

Browse courses on Moneyball

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Research and gather information on Moneyball analysis.
Organize your thoughts and develop an outline for your blog post.
Write the blog post, ensuring clarity and accuracy.

Volunteer at a baseball analytics company

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Gain practical experience in baseball analytics by volunteering at a relevant organization.

Browse courses on Baseball Analytics

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Research and identify baseball analytics companies.
Reach out to these companies and inquire about volunteering opportunities.
Commit to a specific number of hours of volunteering.

Career center

Learners who complete Moneyball and Beyond will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Analyst

With the growing demand for data-driven insights, Data Analysts are in high demand in various industries. The Moneyball and Beyond course equips you with the practical skills and knowledge to succeed in this role. You will learn how to program data using Python, test performance statistics, and analyze advanced metrics like Wins Above Replacement (WAR). This course will help you contribute to the field by learning techniques that assess team winning percentages and predict player performance.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Sports Performance Analyst

For those passionate about sports and data, becoming a Sports Performance Analyst is an excellent career path. The Moneyball and Beyond course provides a solid foundation for this role by teaching you how to calculate and analyze baseball performance statistics. You will gain expertise in advanced metrics like run expectancy and WAR, which are essential for evaluating player performance and optimizing team strategies. This course will enhance your understanding of the quantitative side of sports and help you excel in this dynamic field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Performance Analyst

Statistician

If you have a strong background in mathematics and statistics, consider pursuing a career as a Statistician. The Moneyball and Beyond course will provide you with valuable skills in data analysis and statistical modeling. You will learn how to extract insights from complex datasets, which is crucial in various fields such as healthcare, finance, and research. This course will help you develop a strong foundation in statistical methods and prepare you for a successful career as a Statistician.

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Baseball General Manager

For those with a passion for baseball and an analytical mindset, becoming a Baseball General Manager is a dream job. The Moneyball and Beyond course offers valuable insights into the data and analytics used in modern baseball. You will learn how to evaluate player performance, build a winning team, and make informed decisions based on statistical analysis. This course will give you a competitive edge in the baseball industry and help you succeed as a Baseball General Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Baseball General Manager

Coach

If you are passionate about sports and enjoy working with young athletes, consider becoming a Coach. The Moneyball and Beyond course provides valuable insights into the analysis of performance statistics. You will learn how to assess player performance, develop training programs, and provide feedback based on data. This course will help you become a more effective Coach and maximize the potential of your team.

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Consultant

For those with strong analytical skills and a desire to work across various industries, becoming a Consultant is a rewarding career path. The Moneyball and Beyond course will provide you with the skills to analyze data, identify trends, and communicate insights effectively. You will learn how to apply statistical methods to solve real-world problems and develop data-driven solutions. This course will enhance your consulting toolbox and prepare you for success in this dynamic field.

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Financial Analyst

If you have a strong interest in finance and data analysis, consider becoming a Financial Analyst. The Moneyball and Beyond course provides valuable skills in data analysis and statistical modeling. You will learn how to interpret financial data, identify trends, and make informed investment decisions. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in financial analysis and prepare you for a successful career as a Financial Analyst.

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Data Scientist

For those with a passion for data and a strong background in mathematics and programming, becoming a Data Scientist is an excellent career choice. The Moneyball and Beyond course introduces you to data analysis and statistical modeling using Python. You will learn how to manipulate and analyze large datasets, identify patterns, and develop predictive models. This course will provide you with a foundation in data science and prepare you for a successful career in this growing field.

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Sportscaster

If you have a passion for sports and enjoy public speaking, consider becoming a Sportscaster. The Moneyball and Beyond course provides valuable insights into the analysis of performance statistics. You will learn how to interpret data, explain complex concepts clearly, and engage with audiences. This course will enhance your understanding of the quantitative side of sports and help you succeed as a Sportscaster.

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Sports Agent

For those interested in the business side of sports, becoming a Sports Agent is a rewarding career path. The Moneyball and Beyond course will provide you with insights into the data and analytics used in modern sports. You will learn how to evaluate player performance, negotiate contracts, and manage the careers of professional athletes. This course will give you a competitive edge in the sports industry and help you succeed as a Sports Agent.

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Teacher

If you are passionate about education and enjoy working with students, consider becoming a Teacher. The Moneyball and Beyond course will provide you with valuable skills in data analysis and statistical modeling. You will learn how to present complex information clearly, engage students in learning, and assess student understanding. This course will enhance your teaching toolkit and prepare you for a successful career as a Teacher.

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Writer

For those with a strong passion for writing and an interest in sports, becoming a Writer is a fulfilling career path. The Moneyball and Beyond course will provide you with valuable insights into the analysis of performance statistics. You will learn how to interpret data, tell compelling stories, and write engaging articles and blog posts. This course will enhance your writing skills and prepare you for a successful career as a Writer in the sports industry.

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Researcher

If you have a passion for research and enjoy analyzing data, consider becoming a Researcher. The Moneyball and Beyond course will provide you with valuable skills in data analysis and statistical modeling. You will learn how to design research studies, collect and analyze data, and communicate your findings effectively. This course will enhance your research skills and prepare you for a successful career as a Researcher in various fields.

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Nonprofit Program Director

For those with a passion for making a difference in their communities, becoming a Nonprofit Program Director is a rewarding career path. The Moneyball and Beyond course will provide you with valuable skills in data analysis and statistical modeling. You will learn how to evaluate program effectiveness, identify areas for improvement, and communicate your findings to stakeholders. This course will enhance your ability to manage and evaluate programs effectively, leading to a successful career as a Nonprofit Program Director.

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Actuary

If you have a strong background in mathematics and a knack for problem-solving, consider becoming an Actuary. The Moneyball and Beyond course will provide you with valuable skills in data analysis and statistical modeling. You will learn how to assess risk, develop financial models, and make informed decisions based on data. This course will enhance your analytical skills and prepare you for a successful career as an Actuary.

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