Matt and I are in a furious debate about the existence of clutch hitting in baseball. I think that it is real, but Matt argues that we give the title clutch to a player for simply preforming up to his average ability. He also argues that postseason play is no more or less stressful than the regular season......so
A) Is clutch real, or to we just imagine players to be clutch because we remember random moments of glory?
B) Postseason, more, less, or no different level of stress than the regular season?
C) Jeter, Mr. Clutch or just Mr. Consistent?
*In case you are interested, here is the blog that sparked the debate
http://www.firejoemorgan.com/2007/04/i-know-im-going-to-make-fun-of-someone.html
A) Is clutch real, or to we just imagine players to be clutch because we remember random moments of glory?
B) Postseason, more, less, or no different level of stress than the regular season?
C) Jeter, Mr. Clutch or just Mr. Consistent?
*In case you are interested, here is the blog that sparked the debate
http://www.firejoemorgan.com/2007/04/i-know-im-going-to-make-fun-of-someone.html
4 comments:
I not sure if there's any absolute answer to this "clutch debate". However, its obvious that you'd prefer some guys to others in pressure or "clutch" situations. I'd sure prefer Tony Gwynn at the plate rather than "Super Joe" McEwing when the game is on the line. Not many can be considered "clutch" but they do exist. Also, the law of averages favors consistency. The closest answer is "C".
A) We remember moments we have seen or experienced, through random viewings or pre-selected highlights. This influences our opinions and evaluations of individual players immeasurably.
B) Some players may get spooked. I don't think anyone has the ability to rise above their ability, though, only to be able to perform at their normal rate. Statistical evidence may indicate otherwise in a limited sample set like the playoffs.
C) Jeter: Mister Consistent. There is absolutely no way you can argue to the contrary if you have read the FJM post.
is this a joke poll?
a) clutch is the real deal, just like choke is no joke. It is all in the numbers. Look and you will find stats for the at bats.
b) ummm...duh? even putting aside the childhood dream of making it to the series and the pressure that adds, contract renewals, extensions, options, etc. are measured in great part by post season performance--especially for managers. It adds to the pressure. At the end of the day, owners and fans want the team to win in the post season. Players are aware and want the same. A-Rod 2005 and 2006---need I say more...fine, consider how many team restructurings there are of a team that doesn't advance.
c) both. Jeter is consistent but also has the ability to rise to the occassion when his team needs him the most. that is why is the captain.
I agree with my conscience, I just wish I knew who it was.
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