Pythagoras, the Greek mathematician and philosopher, had a lot of influence on philosophy and religion in the late 6th century BC. In the 21st century, his teachings can help make you some money at the sportsbook.
Pythagorean winning percentage is an estimate of a teams winning percentage, given their runs scored and runs allowed. Developed by Bill James, it can tell you when teams were a bit lucky or unlucky. It is calculated by
(Runs Scored)^1.83
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(Runs Scored)^1.83 + (Runs Allowed)^1.83
That formula had smart bettors betting against the Washington Nationals during the second half of last year, despite their fast start. Another team to pay attention to this year is the Reds. Using this formula, their winning percentage should be .541 instead of the .704 clip they are playing at thus far this season.
Now, you dont need to be a mathematician to know something is a bit fishy about the Reds torrid start. Looking at the newspaper on opening day and seeing Aaron Harang as the starter had to make you wonder how...