The acronym GS in baseball stands for “games started” and it is a statistic that is used to measure a pitcher’s performance over the course of a season. The statistic is calculated by counting the total number of games that a pitcher has started throughout the season, including games in which the pitcher has been removed from the game before completing five innings. It is important to note that this statistic does not include relief appearances or starts in which a pitcher does not complete five innings.
How is GS Used?
The statistic of games started is an important tool for evaluating a pitcher’s performance. It is used to measure a pitcher’s durability, as well as their ability to consistently pitch deep into games. It can also be used to compare pitchers with similar skills and abilities, as well as to evaluate a team’s overall pitching staff.
GS as a Measure of Durability
The GS statistic is an important measure of a pitcher’s durability, as it shows how often they are able to take the mound throughout the season. Pitchers who are able to make a large number of GS throughout the season are generally viewed as having greater durability, and are more likely to be able to stay healthy and make it through the entire season.
GS as a Measure of Performance
Another way that GS is used is to evaluate a pitcher’s performance. Generally speaking, the more GS a pitcher has, the more successful they have been over the course of the season. This is because pitchers who are able to make a large number of GS are generally more reliable and consistent, and are able to provide their team with quality starts more often.
Relationship Between GS and ERA
The statistic of GS is also often used in conjunction with a pitcher’s ERA (Earned Run Average) to evaluate their overall performance. Generally speaking, pitchers with higher GS and lower ERAs are viewed as more successful, while pitchers with lower GS and higher ERAs are viewed as less successful.
GS vs. Innings Pitched
It is important to note that the statistic of GS is not the same as the statistic of innings pitched. Innings pitched is a measure of the total number of innings that a pitcher has thrown over the course of the season, while GS is a measure of the total number of games that a pitcher has started (even if they have not completed five innings).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the statistic of GS (games started) is an important tool for evaluating a pitcher’s performance. It is used to measure a pitcher’s durability, consistency, and overall success over the course of the season. The statistic is often used in conjunction with a pitcher’s ERA to evaluate their overall performance, and is not the same as the statistic of innings pitched.