In 'Astroball,' Ben Reiter uncovers the revolutionary data-driven approach that transformed the Houston Astros from perennial underdogs into World Series champions. This compelling narrative intertwines the evolution of baseball analytics with the personal journey of the players and management who embraced the new philosophy. Reiter explores how intuition meets science in the quest for success, revealing the hidden truths behind the game's strategy. As the Astros shatter conventional wisdom, readers are left questioning what it truly takes to win in America’s favorite pastime. Will this game-changing model reshape the future of baseball forever?
By Ben Reiter
Published: 2019
"In a world driven by data and analytics, the most profound insights often come from trusting the human instinct that lies beneath the numbers."
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • The inside story of the Houston Astros, whose relentless innovation took them from the worst team in baseball to the World Series in 2017 and 2019 “Reiter’s superb narrative of how the team got there provides powerful insights into how organizations—not just baseball clubs—work best.”—The Wall Street Journal Astroball picks up where Michael Lewis’s acclaimed Moneyball leaves off, telling the thrilling story of a championship team that pushed both the sport and business of baseball to the next level. In 2014, the Astros were the worst baseball team in half a century, but just three years later they defied critics to win a stunning World Series. In this book, Ben Reiter shows how the Astros built a system that avoided the stats-versus-scouts divide by giving the human factor a key role in their decision-making. Sitting at the nexus of sports, business, and innovation, Astroball is the story of the next wave of thinking in baseball and beyond, at once a remarkable underdog tale and a fascinating look at the cutting edge of evaluating and optimizing human potential.
Ben Reiter is an acclaimed author and journalist known for his insightful sports writing and narrative non-fiction. He gained significant recognition for his book, "The Dallas Cowboys: The Outrageous History of the Most Hated Team in America," which explores the cultural impact and legacy of the NFL franchise. Reiter's writing is characterized by its engaging prose and deep analysis, blending humor with a keen understanding of the human experience in sports. With a background in writing for Sports Illustrated and other prominent publications, he combines his passion for athletics with sharp storytelling, making his works resonate with both sports enthusiasts and general readers alike.
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In "Nudge," behavioral economists Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein unveil the subtle art of influencing choices and shaping outcomes without restricting freedom. They explore how small, seemingly insignificant changes in the way options are presented can lead to drastically improved decisions in health, finance, and overall happiness. With compelling real-world examples and engaging insights, the authors demonstrate how understanding human psychology can empower individuals and policymakers alike. Dive into a world where choice architecture transforms lives and reshapes society's approach to welfare. Discover the hidden nudges that could change everything about the way we choose!
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In "Peaceful Parent, Happy Siblings," the authors unveil powerful strategies to nurture harmony among brothers and sisters while fostering emotional intelligence. This groundbreaking guide emphasizes the importance of empathy, communication, and connection in resolving sibling conflicts. With relatable anecdotes and practical tools, parents learn to create a peaceful home environment that cultivates strong sibling bonds. Explore the transformative techniques that allow children to thrive together rather than compete. Are you ready to unlock the secrets to happier siblings and a more joyful family life?
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In 'The Botany of Desire', Michael Pollan explores the intricate relationship between humans and plants through the lens of four key species: the apple, the tulip, marijuana, and the potato. Each chapter reveals how these plants have evolved alongside humanity, reflecting our desires for sweetness, beauty, intoxication, and control. Pollan weaves fascinating anecdotes and scientific insights, challenging us to reconsider our role in nature's designs. As he delves into the botanical world, Pollan poses provocative questions about our interconnectedness with flora. This thought-provoking journey invites readers to reflect on the profound impact of desire on the evolution of both plants and people.
In 'Interventions,' Kofi Atta Annan shares riveting insights from his tenure as the UN Secretary-General, unraveling the complexities of global diplomacy and humanitarian crises. Co-authored by Nader Mousavizadeh, the book offers a candid exploration of critical international interventions in the realms of conflict, peacekeeping, and development. Annan's personal anecdotes and reflections challenge conventional narratives, inviting readers to ponder the moral dilemmas faced by world leaders. With a blend of personal and political history, the text reveals the intricate dance between power, responsibility, and human rights on the global stage. Prepare to be captivated by Annan's vision for a more just and united world.
In 'Freakonomics,' Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner explore the hidden side of everything, revealing the surprising truths behind human behavior and decision-making. Through a series of intriguing case studies, they uncover the economic forces that shape our lives in ways we never expected. What do schoolteachers and sumo wrestlers have in common? How do incentives drive the behavior of people in powerful positions? Prepare to challenge your assumptions and see the world through a lens of data and unconventional thinking.
In 'The World Is Sound: Nada Brahma', Joachim-Ernst Berendt takes readers on a captivating journey into the profound connection between sound and existence. He argues that sound is not just an auditory experience, but a fundamental element of the universe, shaping our realities and inner lives. Exploring diverse cultural perspectives and ancient philosophies, Berendt unveils the idea that everything is vibration—a concept that challenges our understanding of life. With enchanting anecdotes and reflections, he invites us to listen more deeply and appreciate the symphony of the world around us. Prepare to be transformed as you discover the hidden harmonies that resonate within you and the cosmos.
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“In a world driven by data and analytics, the most profound insights often come from trusting the human instinct that lies beneath the numbers.”
Astroball
By Ben Reiter
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