GIDP, or grounded into double plays, is an important statistic in Major League Baseball (MLB). Knowing which players lead the league in this statistic can help teams make better decisions on how to play players and in what positions. In this article, we will look at who leads MLB in GIDP, as well as some of the factors that may contribute to this ranking.
What is GIDP?
GIDP stands for grounded into double plays. It is an MLB statistic that measures the number of times a player grounds into a double play. When a player grounds into a double play, he has grounded the ball to the fielder, who then throws to another fielder to complete the double play. GIDP can be a valuable statistic for teams, because it gives a good indication of the player’s ability to hit the ball hard, as well as his ability to stay out of double plays.
Who Leads MLB in GIDP?
As of May 2021, the player who leads MLB in GIDP is Baltimore Orioles third baseman Rio Ruiz. Ruiz has grounded into double plays 18 times this season, the most of any player in the league. He is followed by Chicago White Sox designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion and Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Max Muncy, who both have 16 GIDP.
Factors Contributing to High GIDP Numbers
There are several factors that can contribute to a player having a high GIDP number. One of the most important is the player’s ability to hit the ball hard. If a player can hit the ball hard, he may have a higher chance of grounding into a double play, as the ball is more likely to travel far enough to reach a fielder before the runner can reach the base.
Another factor that can contribute to a player’s GIDP number is his speed. If a player is slower, he may have a harder time avoiding double plays, as he may not be able to reach the base in time. Additionally, a player’s position can also play a role. For example, infielders are more likely to ground into double plays than outfielders, as infielders are closer to the bases and have a better chance of grounding the ball to a fielder.
Conclusion
GIDP is an important statistic in MLB, and knowing who leads the league in this statistic can be a valuable tool for teams. As of May 2021, Baltimore Orioles third baseman Rio Ruiz leads the league in GIDP, with 18 double plays grounded into. This number is largely due to his ability to hit the ball hard and his position on the field. Knowing which players lead MLB in GIDP can help teams make better decisions on how to play their players and in what positions.