Does HR Derby affect 2nd Half Performance

markj111

According to this article, it does not.

http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/fantasy/article/do-hitters-decline-after-the-home-run-derby/

Intro:

For years now, we've heard how players who participate in the Home Run Derby screw up their swing or tire more easily in the second half of the year. It's gotten to the point where players are declining invitations to the Home Run Derby in droves. Major League Baseball seemed to have a particularly tough time filling out the American League side this year. To my knowledge, however, no one has actually tested this theory. Today, I'd like to do just that.

digicat

<< <i>There are a few caveats to this study.

Generalizing to all players: This study looks at the participants on the whole. We are dealing with human beings, though, each having their own unique swings and physiologies. It's entirely possible some players are affected by the Derby, even if the overall effect is small.

Derby participants: There might be some additional selection bias in who participants in the Derby. If a player is legitimately affected by the Derby, he is less likely to participate in future years and thus will only be included in the study once. >>




These are key points. With such a small sample size, most players simply need to point to Bobby Abreu's 2005 season as all the evidence they need not to compete in the Derby.

markj111

Abreu is a really small sample size.

digicat

<< <i>Abreu is a really small sample size. >>



And an extreme one at that, but players don't want to be "that guy," especially if they're playing for their next contract.

sagard

I hope they put Mauer in the derby so he can try to find a power stroke.

Mickey71

NO

Mickey71

Abreu's slump was not the derby; but the ********.- 8 letters.