Didactics and numbers: the sabermetric pillars of baseball pitching training
Keywords:
baseball, sports training, didactic methodology, sabermetrics, cognitive trainingAbstract
This study analyzes the systematic integration of traditional didactic methods with sabermetric tools to optimize the training of baseball pitchers. The objective was to design and validate an integrated didactic methodology to overcome the disconnect between advanced statistical analysis and conventional pedagogical processes. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design (quantitative → qualitative) was employed, with a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest core using a non-equivalent control group (n=12 elite right-handed pitchers), complemented by systematic observation and documentary analysis. The five-stage intervention included the coding of metrics (Whiff%, Spin Rate) into didactic units and contextualized simulations. Results showed significant improvements in technical precision (+12% in fastballs), reaction time (-18%), competitive anxiety (-32%), and global effectiveness (WHIP reduced from 1.35 to 1.18). It is concluded that the methodology constitutes a promising model that redefines the coach's role as a pedagogical-datalogical mediator. However, it is cautioned that the findings, derived from a small and homogeneous sample, represent a robust proof of concept but not universal confirmation. The study provides a transferable theoretical-practical framework for pedagogical sabermetrics, while identifying implementation barriers (cost, training) and proposing future research lines for its validation in more diverse and resource-limited contexts.
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