How to Read a Scouting Report (Even If You’re New to Analytics

  How to Read a Scouting Report (Even If You’re New to Analytics)

How to Read a Scouting Report (Even If You’re New to Analytics)

Intro:
Scouting reports are powerful tools — but only if you know how to use them. For coaches new to analytics, the numbers and tables can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t need a stats degree to gain real value from a well-built report. Here’s how to break it down and use it to your advantage.

Section 1: Start with the Big Picture
Look for summaries that show their hitting tendencies. Do they have a low strikeout rate? High walk rate? If a hitter has 3 strikeouts in the past twenty games, that is a player to watch out for. A quick overview gives you a baseline for what type of team you’re facing.

Section 2: Focus on the Lineup
Check for patterns like:

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  • Hitters with high strikeout or walk rates
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  • RBI producers vs. weak spots in the order
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  • Who leads off innings or sets the table

This helps you plan pitching matchups and defensive strategies.

Section 3: Analyze the Pitching
Scouting reports often show:

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  • Primary pitchers and how often they throw
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  • Strike percentages
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  • Strikeouts and BB per inning

Use this to time your scoring pushes and adjust your approach at the plate.

Section 4: Use the Report to Make Smart Decisions
Once you understand the trends, apply them to:

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  • Batting order adjustments
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  • Pitching rotation choices
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  • Defensive alignments
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  • In-game decisions (e.g., pitching around a key hitter)

Real-World Example
A 10U coach used a scouting report to identify which pitchers the opponents used the most. Elevate Analytics was able to identify a pitcher that was not used much but had a very high strikeout per inning rate and a low ERA. This was their Ace! The opponent only used him in big games and let the others pitch in less competitive games. When the Ace started on the mound, they knew what to expect and set the expectations accordingly.

Final Tip: Don’t Overthink It
You don’t need to act on every number. But spotting two or three key patterns in a report can help you win the game. Focus on what stands out.

Get Your Scouting Report Now
Elevate Analytics offers detailed 10-game, 20-game, and Full Season reports — including a free breakdown of your own team. Start using data the simple way.

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Did You Catch Our Previous Blog? The Most Common Mistakes Coaches Make Without Analytics

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