Accurate pitch tagging is essential for maintaining reliable data during a live game. Following best practices helps improve data consistency, supports accurate analysis, and reduces downstream issues in reports and exported files. Consistent tagging ensures that reports, CSV files, and other analyses accurately reflect the game.

Below are the recommended best practices for tagging pitches during a game:

• Stay Focused on Every Pitch
  • Missing a pitch or entering information late can create gaps in the dataset.
  • Best Practice: Follow the game closely and tag each pitch as it happens, or as close to real time as possible.
• Confirm the Correct Pitch Type
  • Selecting the wrong pitch type affects data accuracy and player analysis.
  • Best Practice: Verify the pitch type before confirming the tag, especially in fast-paced situations.
• Keep the Count Accurate
  • Incorrect ball and strike counts can affect game context and reporting.
  • Best Practice: Track the count carefully throughout the inning and confirm it before tagging each pitch.
• Be Consistent with Tagging Decisions
  • Inconsistent tagging between pitches or across sessions can reduce the reliability of the data.
  • Best Practice: Follow the same tagging standards and conventions throughout the game.
• Minimize Delays in Tagging
  • Delays can lead to timing mismatches between tagging data and tracked events.
  • Best Practice: Tag in real time whenever possible and avoid falling behind the live action.
• Review for Accuracy When Possible
  • Small errors can affect the final output if they are not corrected.
  • Best Practice: Use natural breaks in the game to quickly review entries and confirm tagging accuracy.