Big Data Baseball: Math, Miracles, and the End of a 20-Year Losing Streak

by Travis Sawchik

New York Times Bestseller

A true underdog story of transformation through data, grit, and innovation. In Big Data Baseball, award-winning journalist Travis Sawchik reveals how the Pittsburgh Pirates—once mired in the longest losing streak in North American professional sports history—embraced analytics to defy expectations and ignite a baseball renaissance in 2013.

About the Book

After 20 consecutive losing seasons, low payroll, dwindling attendance, and fan disillusionment, the Pirates had to do more than just survive—they had to evolve. This book chronicles how a blend of old-school coaches and fresh-faced analysts collaborated to unlock overlooked performance gains and strategic advantages using advanced data-tracking systems like PitchF/X and TrackMan.

From manager Clint Hurdle’s culture shift to GM Neal Huntington’s analytical vision, and player innovations from stars like A.J. Burnett, Gerrit Cole, and Russell Martin, the team applied groundbreaking insights—such as optimal pitch locations, defensive shifts, and the value of pitch framing—to gain a competitive edge without breaking the bank.

Key Highlights

• The team’s integration of sabermetrics in a skeptical, traditional environment
• Pitchers retooling arsenals based on hitter data
• Undervalued players turning outsize impact through new performance metrics
• The fusion of clubhouse culture, psychology, and cutting-edge analytics

Perfect For

Readers of sports analytics, baseball history, data science in action, and leadership transformation will be captivated. This book offers valuable lessons for coaches, business leaders, and anyone seeking to rethink what's possible with limited resources and bold ideas.