Laurila: Should exit velocity factor into official scoring?
From SABR member David Laurila at FanGraphs on July 24, 2016:
In the second inning of today’s game at Fenway Park, Minnesota’s Max Kepler hit a one-hop rocket that Red Sox shortstop Xander Bogaerts couldn’t handle. After deliberation — he looked at multiple replays —- official scorer Chaz Scoggins ruled the play an E-6.
A few minutes later, MLB.com Twins beat writer Rhett Bollinger noted that StatCast had Kepler’s smash at 109 mph. That begs a question: Should exit velocity factor into official scoring decisions?
According to Scoggins, the subject has been discussed informally by scorers throughout the two leagues. Based on those conversations, the majority feel “the numbers” shouldn’t matter — an experienced official scorer is able to make an informed decision on a hard-hit ball.
Read the full article here: http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/instagraphs/exit-velocity-and-official-scoring/
Originally published: July 25, 2016. Last Updated: July 25, 2016.