text: is there a way to predict statistically whether a batter is more likely to hit safely with the infield in? assuming the situational reasons for playing the infield "in" aren't a variable, just whether a batter has a higher or lower chance of hitting safely based on the depth of the infielders i guess the only way to get a statistic would be to just watch games and take notes.  otherwise, the only thing i could think of was to get the average speed of which the ball leaves the bat and also the average distance from the plate that outfielders play.  then you could estimate how long they have to react and how fast the ball is going.  as for positioning of the infielders, i don't know how you could account for that.  hope that helps, just a quick idea!