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Pick off Throws, Stolen Bases, and Southpaws: A Comparative Static Analysis of a Mixed Strategy Game

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  • Jim Downey
  • Joseph McGarrity

Abstract

This paper considers a two player game between a base runner and a pitcher in Major League Baseball. To make testable predictions, we exploit the fact that generally left-handed pitchers are more proficient at pick-off throws to first base than their right-handed counterparts. We find evidence in support of mixed strategy play. Copyright International Atlantic Economic Society 2015

Suggested Citation

  • Jim Downey & Joseph McGarrity, 2015. "Pick off Throws, Stolen Bases, and Southpaws: A Comparative Static Analysis of a Mixed Strategy Game," Atlantic Economic Journal, Springer;International Atlantic Economic Society, vol. 43(3), pages 319-335, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:atlecj:v:43:y:2015:i:3:p:319-335
    DOI: 10.1007/s11293-015-9464-4
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    1. Jim Downey & Joseph McGarrity, 2019. "Pressure and the ability to randomize decision-making: The case of the pickoff play in Major League Baseball," Atlantic Economic Journal, Springer;International Atlantic Economic Society, vol. 47(3), pages 261-274, September.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Mixed strategy; Comparative static; Stolen base; D00;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D00 - Microeconomics - - General - - - General

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