The Ball Game Biz - by David George Surdam (Paperback)

About the Book

"This work uses economic theory, simple probability, statistical concepts and game theory to analyze the economics of professional sports. Many key issues that have sparked raging arguments among fans and writers are addressed, including free agency's effect on competitive balance, how rising player salaries have/haven't affected ticket prices, among many others"--Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

This work uses economic theory, simple probability, statistical concepts and game theory to analyze the economics of professional sports. It treats sports leagues as cartels and uses historical examples to test theories regarding labor economics. Many key issues that have sparked raging arguments among fans and writers are addressed, including free agency's effect on competitive balance, how rising player salaries have/haven't affected ticket prices, and the effect of a new stadium on the local economy, among many others.

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Review Quotes

"Uses professional team sports to help students, sportswriters and sports fans learn and understand economic principles"-Reference & Research Book News.

About the Author

David George Surdam is an associate professor of economics at the University of Northern Iowa. He has published books on the economics of the American Civil War and Major League Baseball during the postwar era.