OPS, or On-base Plus Slugging, is an advanced baseball statistic used to measure a hitter’s overall offensive performance. OPS combines two important components of offensive production, on-base percentage (OBP) and slugging percentage (SLG). The formula for OPS is simple: OBP + SLG = OPS. The higher the OPS, the better the hitter’s overall offensive performance.
What is On-Base Percentage (OBP)?
On-base percentage (OBP) is a key statistic used to measure a hitter’s ability to get on base. It is calculated by dividing the number of times a player reaches base (hits, walks, and hit-by-pitches) by the number of times they come to the plate (at-bats, walks, hit-by-pitches, and sacrifice flies). OBP is one of the most important offensive stats and is considered to be a key statistic when evaluating a hitter’s overall performance.
What is Slugging Percentage (SLG)?
Slugging percentage (SLG) is another important statistic used to measure a hitter’s ability to hit for power. It is calculated by dividing the number of total bases (singles, doubles, triples, and home runs) by the number of at-bats. Slugging percentage is used to evaluate a hitter’s ability to hit for extra bases, and is another key statistic when evaluating a hitter’s overall performance.
What is a Good OPS Number?
The answer to this question is subjective, as it depends on a number of factors such as league and level of play. Generally speaking, an OPS of .800 or higher is considered to be good, while an OPS of .900 or higher is considered to be excellent. However, it’s important to note that OPS is not the only statistic used to evaluate a hitter’s performance. Other important stats such as batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage should also be taken into consideration.
Factors Affecting OPS
There are a number of factors that can affect a player’s OPS. These include the following:
• Quality of Opposing Pitching: The quality of the opposing pitchers can have a significant impact on a player’s OPS. If a hitter is facing better pitchers, their OPS may be lower than it would be against weaker pitchers.
• Park Factors: Park factors can also have an effect on a player’s OPS. The size of the playing field, the altitude, and the weather can all play a role in determining a hitter’s OPS.
• Level of Play: The level at which a hitter is playing can also affect their OPS. A player’s OPS in the minor leagues may be significantly different than their OPS in the majors.
• Quality of Contact: The quality of contact a hitter makes can also have an effect on their OPS. A hitter who is able to make harder and more consistent contact will usually have a higher OPS than a hitter who makes weak contact.
Conclusion
OPS, or On-base Plus Slugging, is an advanced baseball statistic used to measure a hitter’s overall offensive performance. It is calculated by combining a hitter’s on-base percentage and slugging percentage. Generally speaking, an OPS of .800 or higher is considered to be good, while an OPS of .900 or higher is considered to be excellent. However, it’s important to note that OPS is not the only statistic used to evaluate a hitter’s performance. Other important stats such as batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage should also be taken into consideration. Additionally, a number of factors such as the quality of the opposing pitching, the size of the playing field, the altitude, and the weather can all affect a player’s OPS.