
How to Start a Career in Baseball Analytics: Online Course with MLB Analytics Pioneer Ari Kaplan
May 27, 2025
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Course Overview:
Step into the world of modern baseball analysis with SMWW’s 8-week online Baseball Analytics course, led by Ari Kaplan—an MLB analytics pioneer, Formula 1 analyst, and Head of Evangelism at Databricks. Recently honored as “Data and AI Leader of the Year,” Ari brings a wealth of experience at the intersection of baseball, data science, and front office strategy. This course is designed to equip you with the essential skills and industry-relevant knowledge needed to pursue a career in baseball analytics, front office operations, and player evaluation. Whether you aspire to work in MLB, Minor League Baseball, college programs, or baseball media, this program offers the tools and mentorship to get you there.
What You’ll Learn:
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Baseball Analytics Fundamentals: Understand how analytics are used to evaluate players, build rosters, and develop winning strategies.
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Sabermetrics & Statistical Models: Dive deep into sabermetrics, data-driven scouting, and the advanced metrics that drive front office decision-making.
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Data Tools & Software: Gain exposure to the analytics platforms and tools used by professional teams—including those tied to player tracking, visualization, and modeling.
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Player Performance & Roster Evaluation: Learn how to assess player value, compare performance across leagues, and forecast future production using modern data science.
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Front Office Integration: Explore how analytics departments collaborate with coaches, scouts, and executives to influence game-day and long-term decisions.
Why Learn from Ari Kaplan:
Ari Kaplan has been a trailblazer in baseball analytics for over 25 years, working with over half of all MLB organizations. As a consultant, advisor, and innovator, he has helped shape how data is used in player evaluation and front office decisions. Currently serving as Head of Evangelism at Databricks and a Formula 1 analyst, Ari brings a unique cross-sport perspective and world-class expertise in analytics, AI, and sports technology.
Ideal For:
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Aspiring baseball analysts and data scientists
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Coaches and scouts looking to adopt data-driven strategies
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Sports management professionals entering baseball operations
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Fans passionate about analytics, sabermetrics, and player evaluation
Course Highlights:
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Live Mentorship: Participate in weekly live Zoom sessions with Ari Kaplan, where you can ask questions and receive direct feedback on your work.
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Hands-On Projects: Work on real-world baseball analytics projects using MLB-style data and tools.
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Resume Enhancement: Access a resume redesign service tailored to careers in baseball analytics and sports data.
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SMWW Certification: Earn a certificate from SMWW that demonstrates your proficiency in baseball analytics, recognized by teams and employers across the sports industry.
Get Started:
Begin your journey into baseball analytics today. For more details and to enroll, visit the SMWW Baseball Analytics course page.