FanPost

Decision Sciences, Legends and the Left Side of the Astros Infield

I am wondering if the play and range of Alex Bregman will alter the alignment of Carlos Correa. By way of background, my son was living in NYC starting about 10 years ago and the following legend was current: The Yankees put ARod at 3rd not only because "The Captain" was established at SS but also for tangible, physical reasons. Jeter was not quick enough to play 3rd. An unexpected bonus was the improvement in play by Jeter. (A study of 2 or 3 years of shortstop play had found that Adam Everett was the best SS in baseball and that Jeter ranked in the mid 20's.) The arrival of ARod made a difference. Jeter was a able to play deeper because ARod's range (he had been a gold glove SS) allowed it. ARod took away the need for Jeter to make any of the "slowly hit balls toward short" plays. ARod got 'em.

Is any part of that legend true? I don't know, but it got me wondering. The Astros now have a 3rd baseman with what my eyeballs unscientifically say is exceptional range and great quickness. The Astros also have a decision sciences department with the ability to track player movements precisely all over the field. I wonder if studies of Bregman's play will yield subtle changes in how the team positions Correa. Has anyone noticed any changes yet?