Ben Blatt, a data reporter for The New York Times' The Upshot, has carved a unique niche at the intersection of sports analytics and journalism. His projects include analyzing whether Taylor Swift's presence at NFL games impacts ratings and examining patterns in over 6,000 "Wheel of Fortune" puzzles. Blatt, 35, brings a mathematical approach to storytelling, spending weeks or months on single questions like taxpayer funding effectiveness for shows like "Saturday Night Live" or the rise of long field goals in the NFL.

The Harvard graduate with a degree in applied mathematics found his calling after reading Michael Lewis's "Moneyball" in high school. This book inspired him to pursue sports analytics, leading to work with the Harvard Sports Analysis Collective and a data analyst position with the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars. Blatt's journey included writing for Slate, co-authoring a book about visiting all 30 MLB stadiums in 30 days, and developing expertise in using data to explain cultural phenomena.

At The Times, Blatt leverages tools like Excel, Python, and artificial intelligence coding tools to distill complex data into accessible narratives. He values the quality-over-quantity approach that allows for deep dives into questions. Blatt aims to apply his analytical skills to public policy issues like gambling regulations, SNAP benefits, and roadway safety, where he believes small details in data can make substantial impact on policy decisions.