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First to Score:  Presented by Sparkline Sports

What You Will Learn in Each Chapter

  • Understand what FSWG™ (First Score Wins Game) means and why it matters.

  • See why a high FSWG™ percentage is a defining trait of playoff-caliber teams.

  • 2023 rule changes impacted the game of baseball.

  • The extra inning rule change has impacted FSWG™.

  • The psychology of scoring first.

  • Hockey and soccer studies identified similar FSWG™ rates to baseball.

  • Division games do not neutralize scoring first.

  • Shutdowns occur when a team scores first, and their pitching never allows their opponent to tie or take a lead.

  • Pitchers (with their bullpens) can be measured with an FSWG™ Pitcher Impact Score.

  • 2022- 2025 League FSWG™ rates have been consistently between 67- 69%.

  • Starting pitchers and their bullpens can be measured by FSWG™ percentage.

  • Playoff teams dominate the top 10 FSWG™ percentage rankings each season.

  • The first inning produces the most first runs.

  • Not all first scores situations are equal.

  • Certain scenarios can amplify the value of scoring first.

  • Home playoff teams are strong at overcoming first scores.

  • FSWG™ passes the test of time across different eras of MLB baseball.

  • Champions score first at a high rate compared with other Final Four playoff teams.

  • How can you use this information?

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