TT: Statcast shows Orioles outfield defense is below average so far in 2017

[Tony-OH]

5 minutes ago, Frobby said:

If it's an error, it's a chance, but if there's no error, it's not a chance.   Take a look at any outfielder's stats on BB-ref and you'll see that what I'm saying is true (chances = putouts + assists + errors).      I'm not saying it's logical.    For that matter, if an ourfielder makes an accurate throw that doesn't result in an out, that's not a chance.    But if he makes an inaccurate throw where a runner advances, that is an error and hence also a chance.    

Honestly I've never looked at it that closely before, but assumed all of those were chances. Seems like their error percentages should be much lower then.

[fastball]

17 hours ago, Frobby said:

Per fangraphs, the O's outfield is at -4.3 UZR/150, 20th in MLB.   That's poor, but a big upgrade from last year's -11.2 UZR/150, dead last in MLB.      So yeah, the OF defense is still noticeably below average, but at least it's not a complete laughing stock like last year.

 

[fastball]

Hearing the voice of the Fat Lady singing in May.

[baltfan]

Little surprised on Jones.  In the Machado game (where Machado was on fire in the field) in Boston he made two catches that I would have thought were at least a 4.  Seems I have seen some others this year that have been somewhat similar.  

[SteveA]

6 hours ago, Tony-OH said:

So how would a hard hit ball at an outfielder that rolls under his glove be considered an error if it was not a chance? I'll ask Jim Hennemen.

Yes, that is a chance because of the error.

But if he just picks it up, it's no chance.

Yes, kind of odd.   Another reason fielding percentage is a poor reason to evaluate fielders.

EDIT:  Now I see Frobby beat me to the explanation.