Using a radial bias function network, a sort of neural net, Dr. Smith and Dr. Downey were able to identify statistical commonalities among Hall of Famers. As it turns out, hits, home runs and on-base plus slugging percentages are what count for hitters, while wins, saves, earned run average and winning percentage are what count for pitchers. All-Star Game appearances count for both, being especially valuable for hitters as they serve as a useful proxy for position.
Nothing surprising here, but I’d like to know, according to the model, the probability that Ron Santo gets into the HOF.
Keep in mind I haven’t seen the model at the time of this writing. But it might make an interesting model to use to analyze the effect of the steroids era on the chances players get into the HOF.
HT Ishuan Li
Cross-posted at Market Power
