We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Stefan Szymanski
The book Moneyball triggered a revolution in the analysis of performance statistics in professional sports, by showing that data analytics could be used to increase team winning percentage. This course shows how to program data using Python to test the claims that lie behind the Moneyball story, and to examine the evolution of Moneyball statistics since the book was published. The learner is led through the process of calculating baseball performance statistics from publicly available datasets. The course progresses from the analysis of on base percentage and slugging percentage to more advanced measures derived using the run expectancy matrix, such as wins above replacement (WAR). By the end of this course the learner will be able to use these statistics to conduct their own team and player analyses.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/8nytvy/moneyball
Here's a deal for you
We found an offer that may be relevant to this course.
Save money when you learn.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
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).
Read more
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).
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause 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
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Baseball data analytics with python
According to learners, this course offers a largely positive experience, lauded for its ability to demystify complex baseball statistics. Students highlight how the instructor explains concepts like WAR and run expectancy in a clear, understandable way, making advanced sabermetrics accessible. The hands-on Python exercises are frequently praised for providing practical experience and solidifying understanding of how these metrics are calculated and applied. While many found the course highly engaging and well-structured, a recurring theme is that it assumes Python proficiency. Learners with limited coding experience noted a steep learning curve, suggesting a strong Python foundation is beneficial for maximizing the course's value.
Highly engaging for baseball and data science enthusiasts.
"Absolutely loved this course! As someone who enjoys both baseball and data analysis, this was a perfect fit."
"Fantastic course! It exceeded my expectations... A must for baseball stats geeks!"
"It genuinely changed how I view baseball strategy. Highly engaging and well-structured."
"Truly exceptional! As a long-time baseball fan, this course opened my eyes to the depth of data analysis possible."
Practical coding exercises solidify analytical understanding.
"The Python exercises really solidify the learning. I found myself applying the concepts immediately..."
"I appreciate the hands-on Python exercises. A must for baseball stats geeks!"
"The Python labs provide practical experience. The depth of analysis into OBP, SLG, and especially WAR was impressive."
"The Python implementation is practical and helps to really grasp the mechanics of OBP, SLG, and WAR."
Demystifies complex baseball analytics effectively.
"The instructor explains complex concepts like WAR and run expectancy in a clear, understandable way..."
"The way the course walks you through the historical context... then progressively builds up to advanced statistics like WAR, is brilliant."
"The explanations are top-notch, and the depth of analysis into OBP, SLG, and especially WAR was impressive."
"The course breaks down complex baseball statistics into manageable, understandable pieces."
Some Python code could be more efficient; early modules slow.
"I felt some of the Python code provided was a bit clunky or could be more efficient."
"My only minor critique is that the Python examples could be more robust or follow more modern Pythonic conventions."
"The pace was a bit slow in the early modules if you're already familiar with basic stats."
Requires existing Python knowledge, not for beginners.
"I struggled a bit with the Python part... didn't provide enough guidance for someone not already proficient in Python."
"I was hoping for more in-depth Python programming instruction... If you're strong in Python... great. If not, be prepared for a steep learning curve."
"It assumes you already know Python well, which isn't ideal for everyone... struggles to balance the statistical theory with the practical coding application."
"The course assumes a certain level of programming comfort. If you're not strong in coding, be warned."
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
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of statistics principles to prepare for the course's emphasis on data analysis.
Browse courses on
Statistics
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Develop your Python programming skills for data analysis, which is essential for the course.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
-
Find tutorials on Python libraries for data manipulation and visualization.
-
Follow the tutorials and practice writing Python code.
Practice calculating baseball performance statistics
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of baseball performance statistics by calculating them from raw data.
Show steps
-
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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Build a baseball statistics database
Show steps
Create a database of baseball statistics to practice data analysis techniques used in the course.
Browse courses on
Data Collection
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Engage with classmates in discussions to clarify concepts, share insights, and learn from others.
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Enhance your communication and presentation skills by creating a presentation that summarizes the impact of Moneyball.
Browse courses on
Moneyball
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Synthesize your understanding of Moneyball analysis by writing a blog post that explains the concepts and implications.
Browse courses on
Moneyball
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Gain practical experience in baseball analytics by volunteering at a relevant organization.
Browse courses on
Baseball Analytics
Show steps
-
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.
Review statistics principles
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of statistics principles to prepare for the course's emphasis on data analysis.
Browse courses on
Statistics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Develop your Python programming skills for data analysis, which is essential for the course.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find tutorials on Python libraries for data manipulation and visualization.
- Follow the tutorials and practice writing Python code.
Practice calculating baseball performance statistics
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of baseball performance statistics by calculating them from raw data.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Build a baseball statistics database
Show steps
Create a database of baseball statistics to practice data analysis techniques used in the course.
Browse courses on
Data Collection
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Engage with classmates in discussions to clarify concepts, share insights, and learn from others.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Enhance your communication and presentation skills by creating a presentation that summarizes the impact of Moneyball.
Browse courses on
Moneyball
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Synthesize your understanding of Moneyball analysis by writing a blog post that explains the concepts and implications.
Browse courses on
Moneyball
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Gain practical experience in baseball analytics by volunteering at a relevant organization.
Browse courses on
Baseball Analytics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
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.
Sports Performance 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.
Statistician
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.
Baseball General Manager
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.
Coach
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.
Consultant
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.
Financial Analyst
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.
Data Scientist
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.
Sportscaster
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.
Sports Agent
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.
Teacher
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.
Writer
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.
Researcher
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.
Nonprofit Program Director
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.
Actuary
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.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/8nytvy/moneyball
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Moneyball and Beyond.
Save
Provides the background and context for the Moneyball story and the analysis of performance statistics in professional sports.
Save
Provides a more in-depth look at the sabermetric analysis of baseball performance.
Save
This website provides in-depth analysis of baseball from a sabermetric perspective.
This annual publication provides in-depth analysis of Major League Baseball teams and players.
This podcast provides in-depth analysis of Major League Baseball teams and players.
Save
This website provides comprehensive statistics and analysis of Major League Baseball teams and players.
Provides a more general overview of the history and analysis of baseball.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/8nytvy/moneyball
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Rating
4.6
Effort
28 hours to complete
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Michigan
Instructor
Stefan Szymanski
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Sports Performance Analytics. It's comprised of five courses:
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser