The offensive performance of a major league baseball player is measured by a statistic known as OPS, or On-Base Plus Slugging. This statistic is a combination of two other statistics, on-base percentage and slugging percentage, and is a widely used tool to measure the offensive performance of a batter. Knowing what the average OPS is in Major League Baseball (MLB) is important for players and coaches, as it helps them assess their player’s abilities and set goals for improvement.
Understanding OPS
OPS is calculated by adding a player’s on-base percentage and slugging percentage and dividing the result by two. On-base percentage is calculated by dividing the number of times a batter reaches base (hits, walks, and hit by pitch) by the total number of plate appearances (at-bats, walks, hit by pitch, sacrifice flies, and sacrifice bunts). Slugging percentage is calculated by adding the total number of bases a batter reaches (singles, doubles, triples, and home runs) and dividing by the total number of at-bats.
The average OPS in MLB
The average OPS in MLB has fluctuated over the years, with higher averages in the late 1990s and early 2000s and lower averages in recent years. In 2020, the average OPS in MLB was .743. This was a slight decrease from 2019, when the average OPS was .750. Over the past five years, the average OPS in MLB has ranged from .738 in 2016 to .750 in 2019.
Factors That Influence Average OPS
Several factors can influence the average OPS in MLB. The number of home runs hit can have a significant influence on the average OPS, as home runs contribute significantly to the slugging percentage. The number of walks a player takes can also affect the average OPS, as walks contribute to the on-base percentage. Additionally, the number of strikeouts a player has can influence the average OPS, as strikeouts limit the number of times a batter can reach base.
How to Improve OPS
Improving one’s OPS involves making adjustments to either the on-base percentage or the slugging percentage. To improve the on-base percentage, a hitter should strive to make more contact with the ball and reduce the number of strikeouts. Additionally, a hitter should work to draw more walks and increase their discipline at the plate. To improve the slugging percentage, a hitter should look to hit the ball with more power and generate more extra-base hits.
Conclusion
Knowing the average OPS in MLB is important for players and coaches as it helps them assess their player’s abilities and set goals for improvement. In 2020, the average OPS in MLB was .743, a slight decrease from 2019. Several factors can influence the average OPS in MLB, such as the number of home runs hit, the number of walks taken, and the number of strikeouts. Improving one’s OPS involves making adjustments to either the on-base percentage or slugging percentage. With dedication and hard work, players can improve their OPS and become more effective hitters.