Astroball is a non-fiction book written by Ben Reiter, published in 2017. The book is centered around the story of the Houston Astros, a Major League Baseball team that underwent a complete transformation from being a perennial loser to a World Series champion in just a few years. The book delves into the strategy, analytics, and the people behind this remarkable turnaround.
The first chapter of the book introduces the reader to the concept of “the plan.” This refers to the long-term strategy that the Astros implemented to rebuild the team from the ground up. The plan involved a complete overhaul of the team’s roster, including trades, free agent signings, and draft picks. The goal was to build a team that was not only talented but also analytically driven, using data and advanced metrics to make decisions.
Chapter 2: The Data
In this chapter, the author explores the role of data and analytics in the Astros’ success. The team used a variety of advanced metrics to evaluate players, including things like their defensive range, baserunning ability, and clutch performance. The team also used data to inform their decision-making process, from draft picks to in-game strategy.
Chapter 3: The Players
This chapter focuses on the players who were key to the Astros’ success. The author profiles several players, including Jose Altuve, Dallas Keuchel, and George Springer, and discusses how their unique skills and personalities contributed to the team’s success.
Chapter 4: The Manager
The fourth chapter of the book is about the manager of the Astros, A.J. Hinch. Hinch is portrayed as a key figure in the team’s success, as he was able to balance the demands of the analytical approach with the needs of the players. He also had to navigate the challenges of managing a young team with high expectations.
Chapter 5: The Championship
This chapter chronicles the Astros’ run to the World Series in 2017. The team faced several challenges along the way, including injuries and tough opponents, but ultimately emerged victorious. The author describes the excitement and drama of the playoffs and the impact that the championship had on the city of Houston.
Conclusion
Overall, Astroball is a fascinating look at the behind-the-scenes of a major league baseball team. The book provides insights into the strategy, analytics, and personalities that drove the Astros’ transformation from a perennial loser to a World Series champion. Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of sports, data, and strategy.
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