An analysis of the backgrounds of professional baseball players

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Authors
Jones, Kenneth
Advisor
Buck, Marilyn M.
Issue Date
1998
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (M.A.)
Department
School of Physical Education
Other Identifiers
Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the backgrounds of current professional baseball players to see if there is an advantage to a player by entering the professional ranks from high school, junior college, or a four-year university. Subjects included 14,744 drafted baseball players from the years 1986 thru 1995 and 1,480 major league and top prospects from the major league rosters in 1996. Players were categorized into what educational level each entered professional baseball, what round they were drafted, how many years they spent in the minor leagues, how many years they spent at the major league level, and if they had been drafted previously. Percentages were used to find the most common background in professional baseball and to compare the two sets of data to see if the information was consistent. The results found that the majority of the players entering the minor leagues and those playing at the major league levels played at a four-year university. Players will now be able to analyze their own situation and background to determine when will be the best time for them to enter professional baseball.

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