How can I tell whether a player hits better vs. lefties or righties?
The “balance” rating, abbreviated “BAL”, provides this information, and by how much. A balance rating of “9L” indicates that the player is much better vs. lefties, while a “1L” indicates that he hits lefties slightly better. “E” indicates that he hits lefties and righties equally well. “1R” indicates that he is slightly better against righties, and “9R” that he is much better against righties. Note that the balance rating compares only that player’s 2 sides relative to each other, not to those of other players. A player with a “2R” rating might actually hit a lefthanded pitcher better than a player with a “5L” rating if the first player is a much better hitter overall.
