Interesting study on speed and agility.
Functional Performance Testing
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It is an interesting analysis. But I think of Billy Bean when I finish the study. By all measured methods he should have been a super star.
I think that so much of what actually separates ball players are truly intangibles. You may be very quick to get to a ball, but are you reading the direction and the hops while positioning yourself in a game situation?
You may be able to generate 100mph bat speed but are you able to read the breaking ball so you can stay back.
I do believe that much of scouting and recruiting is based on trying to discern these exact metrics. Body type is the most important factor, with overall height being the most critical.
If you can meet the norms or surpass the norms in this analysis I think that you have every advantage of getting great opportunities and perhaps monetary rewards.
However, I do not believe that you get a baseball player without the mental makeup and intangible understanding of the game and how it is played.
I think of Jeter and that shuttle throw to the plate from the first baseline. This is not taught and bears little relation to the capabilities measured in the study.
Diving for a ball and flipping or turning to throw an accurate throw while on the ground is not measured here. It can't be.
The heart of the game and the excitement associated with the game is on display by those who love to play the game, not those that possess certain physical attributes.
I think that so much of what actually separates ball players are truly intangibles. You may be very quick to get to a ball, but are you reading the direction and the hops while positioning yourself in a game situation?
You may be able to generate 100mph bat speed but are you able to read the breaking ball so you can stay back.
I do believe that much of scouting and recruiting is based on trying to discern these exact metrics. Body type is the most important factor, with overall height being the most critical.
If you can meet the norms or surpass the norms in this analysis I think that you have every advantage of getting great opportunities and perhaps monetary rewards.
However, I do not believe that you get a baseball player without the mental makeup and intangible understanding of the game and how it is played.
I think of Jeter and that shuttle throw to the plate from the first baseline. This is not taught and bears little relation to the capabilities measured in the study.
Diving for a ball and flipping or turning to throw an accurate throw while on the ground is not measured here. It can't be.
The heart of the game and the excitement associated with the game is on display by those who love to play the game, not those that possess certain physical attributes.
All good points.