OSU Students Predict World Series Outcome Using Simulation Software From Imagine That!; Extend Software Used to Model a Baseball Game.

Business & Education Editors/High-Tech & Sports Writers 

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 10, 2002

Imagine That, Inc. today announced its Extend(TM) simulation software was used to correctly predict the winner of the 2001 World Series! With the goal of using simulation software to assist in a decision making process, a creative team of students from The Ohio State University developed a model to simulate a baseball game.

According to Professor David Schilling, no relation to the Diamondbacks pitcher, "The student's goal was to build a model that could simulate a baseball game accurately enough to reliably predict the outcome." After building the model, the students decided to apply it to the 2001 World Series between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the New York Yankees. "They were successful in predicting the final outcome of 6 of the 7 games and predicted the Diamondbacks would become the Baseball World Champions," says Schilling.

Baseball demonstrates the ability of simulation to take into account many factors (hitting, slugging and pitching statistics) to produce answers that could correctly guide a decision maker. For instance, the model can be used to optimize batting lineups, choose starting pitchers and explore which player acquisitions would be most beneficial to a team.

Optimum Batting Order Determined

The optimum batting order is a constant subject of debate in baseball. Traditionally, managers put the players with a high on-base percentage (OBP) at the top of the lineup as "table setters." Next, they load the middle of the lineup with power hitters.

Some baseball statisticians argue that the best chance to score runs is to bat highest to lowest OBP. They reason the more players on base, the greater chance to score. Others champion on base plus slugging (OPS) which allows a balance of power hitters and table setters. The students tried several variations and found some interesting results. You can download the simulation example and see the student's analysis and results at http://www.imaginethatinc.com/frame_downloads.html.

About Imagine That!

Imagine That, Inc., incorporated in 1987, is the leading developer and supplier of simulation software. The Extend(TM) family of simulation tools allows dynamic modeling of processes in virtually any field. You can test hypotheses and explore new processes without having to run pilot programs. For additional information, visit www.imaginethatinc.com or call 408/365-0305.