In what universe... ?

As in, in what universe is it reasonable that... ?

Card anomalies seem to be more common in the 2021 card set. For example, take a look at Adam Engel, who had OPS .643 vs. LHP and OPS .938 vs. RHP. How can that be "Balance: E" on the card and with incredibly better odds vs. L?

When I analyze Engel's card, I see his run production being essentially equal vs left and right. Now, I am assuming that his card was constructed correctly, but based on the actual card values, and in small ball, mid ball, and bomber parks, he is pretty close to equal. In fact, in bomber parks he is better against righties than against lefties due to more ballpark homers on that side.

Again, I am assuming that strat created the card correctly, but that really is an E hitting card.

I agree that's more or less an E hitting card. I was just curious about what in the actual data prompted Strat to do that?

As in, in what universe is it reasonable that... ?

Card anomalies seem to be more common in the 2021 card set. For example, take a look at Adam Engel, who had OPS .643 vs. LHP and OPS .938 vs. RHP. How can that be "Balance: E" on the card and with incredibly better odds vs. L?

I have never understood what formula they use to determine L vs R balance.

Although not as dramatic a difference, other examples include:
Vierling at 1L balance with L/R OPS of 787/920
Bregman at 1L balance with L/R OPS of 939/690

Does Trout as a 7R makes sense?

Sure. Trout had a 1.224 OPS vs. RHP and .762 vs. LHP.

Sure. Trout had a 1.224 OPS vs. RHP and .762 vs. LHP.

So It's slugging pct that makes the difference. What is the OBA. L vs R?

vs. LHP - .468
vs. RHP -. 465

I have never understood what formula they use to determine L vs R balance.

Basically it is what I refer to as "card" OPS out of the 108 chances on the hitters card.

BB/HBP=1, Single=2 (1 for the OB plus 1 for the Total bases), Double=3, Triple=4, HR=5

Compare the left to the right side and it will be about equal

My quick adding gets Engel at 86.4 vs LH and 86.7 vs RH in the 8/8 SI, 8/8HR park. Put him in Dodger stadium and he will lean to RH side a little.

(you can add it easily with the graphs under the cards.)