What is a Good Batting Average?

While it is no longer the go-to hitting statistic, understanding the nuances of batting averages is still critical. For players, it provides a benchmark for evaluating performance, while for enthusiasts, it offers insights into a batter's efficiency at the plate. But the question that often takes center stage is, "What is a good batting average?"

The Short Answer: In Major League Baseball, a batting average of .300 is generally seen as a solid marker of good performance. A .300 average reflects that a player has successfully hit the ball in 30% of their at-bats. However, it's crucial to understand that a .300 batting average isn't a rigid ceiling. It stands as an achievable goal, but there's always the potential to exceed expectations and scale new heights, entering the ranks of the truly exceptional hitters in baseball history.

But a number alone doesn't fully embody the intricacies of a player's performance. Alongside batting averages, other statistics such as Slugging, On Base Percentage (OBP), and On Base plus Slugging (OPS) offer a deeper understanding of a player's contribution on the field. A sudden shift has been apparent in recent years, with professionals leaning towards OPS as a more comprehensive statistic for evaluating a player's performance over batting averages.

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Understanding Baseball Hitting Statistics

Baseball is a data-rich sport where statistics form the backbone of analysis and player evaluation. It's one of the sports that most heavily relies on statistics, both for judging player's performance and making strategic decisions. From illuminating players' strengths and weaknesses to aiding in roster construction, offensive statistics offer critical insights that go beyond what the eye sees. Now let's break down some key hitting metrics.

Batting Average (AVG)

Considered a universal measure, the Batting Average is computed by dividing the total number of hits by the player's total at-bats, giving the average success rate the player achieves in hitting. It spells out a player's ability to successfully hit the ball when they're at bat. Note that certain plate appearances are not factored into the total such as walks, sacrifice bunts, and sacrifice fly balls.

Slugging Percentage (SLG)

Here's where power comes into play. The Slugging percentage computes the total bases a batter has earned, considering the quality of hits (single = 1 point, double = 2 points, and so on), divided by the total at-bats. It's a valuable metric in assessing a player's power-hitting capability with higher numbers indicating more bases per at-bat.

On Base Percentage (OBP)

The On Base Percentage assesses how frequently a batter reaches the base, taking into account not only hits, but walks and hit-by-pitches. It's computed by the formula (Hits + Walks + Hit by Pitch)) ÷ (At Bats + Walks + Hit by Pitch + Sacrifice Flies). This stat is helpful in determining a player's ability to keep innings alive.

On Base plus Slugging (OPS)

Providing a well-rounded understanding of a batter's potential, OPS combines the insights of OBP and SLG, recognizing both power and consistency. An OPS that exceeds .900 is typically considered elite, representing a player's potent offensive prowess.

While scouts of the past relied heavily on batting averages for evaluation, the landscape has evolved, now leveraging OPS as a more comprehensive measure of a hitter's output given that it takes into account a hitter's ability to get on base and hit for extra bases which is also a measure of the quality of a hitter. See our blog on baseball hitting statistics for more information!

Breaking Down Batting Averages

Looking for benchmarks to better understand what a good batting average is? Interpreting the numbers provides a snapshot of a player's performance, allowing a deeper understanding of what the numbers mean in the grand scheme of things. 

Sub .200 Batting Average: A season batting average below .200 is generally seen as below average. A famous player in this bracket would be Bill Bergen, known more for his catching skills rather than his ability at the plate. 

.200-.250 Batting Average: This range is seen as an average batting average and includes players like Graig Nettles who've had successful careers despite a more modest batting average due to contributions in other areas such as fielding. 

.250-.300 Batting Average: A batter with an average in this range is generally considered an above-average hitter. An example would be baseball legend Mickey Mantle, who despite a .298 career average boasts numerous achievements including 7 World Series titles. 

.300-.350 Batting Average: If your regular season batting average falls in this range, you are a high-performing batter, with these averages considered great by professional standards. Tony Gwynn, for instance, a .338 career hitter is one such player who was well-regarded for his contact hitting skills. 

.350+ Batting Average: This category is reserved for the most extraordinary hitters, with only a handful of Major League hitters ever accomplishing it. Ty Cobb, who achieved a mesmerizing career average of .366, tops this list.

Understanding these batting average benchmarks can give you a glimpse into what constitutes different levels of performance. However, remember that every player brings something unique to the game. Some exceptional fielders may not excel at batting, and slug hitters might occasionally prioritize power over contact, which could impact their average.

How to Improve Your Batting Average

Improving your batting average isn't an overnight process. It requires dedication, practice, and the right approach. Here are some critical elements to concentrate on and ways to enhance them.

Bat-to-Ball Skills

Fundamental to hitting, bat-to-ball skills involve practicing your click-timing and honing your general hand-eye coordination. Work on meeting the ball consistently before aiming for power. Remember, a base hit can be more beneficial than a swing and a miss.

Bat Speed

Bat speed is another significant contributor to a high batting average. This refers to the speed at which the bat impacts the ball and can be improved by enhancing your strength, particularly in your wrists and forearms. Greater bat speed improves the chances of hitting the ball effectively and making a clean contact leading to more hits.

Staying Inside the Ball

This phrase confuses even seasoned players but in essence, it encourages keeping your bat in the strike zone for as long as possible. This approach increases the chances of hitting the ball effectively. Incorporate drills aimed at this and you'll see noticeable improvement on the plate.

Balance and Sequencing

Good balance optimizes control and power in your swing. It is pivotal to remaining steady and keeping your eyes level, enhancing the chances of accurate tracking and hitting. Along with balance, proper sequencing matters too. It refers to coordinating your hip, torso, and arm movements when swinging. Better sequencing can improve both power and contact quality. 

Practice 

In the end, all these techniques need repetition. The more you practice, the more progress you’ll make. As your skills develop, your confidence will grow, naturally reflecting in your batting average over time. For specific drills and a deeper dive into each of these skill areas, refer to our blog on Baseball Hitting Drills. 

How BRUCE BOLT Can Help 

By now, you should have a firmer grip on how batting averages work and how to improve yours. But, like any sport, baseball isn’t just about skill - it’s also about having the right equipment. This is where BRUCE BOLT steps up to the plate.

BRUCE BOLT is a go-to for many ball players looking for premium and trusted baseball gear. Why? Our gear is designed with an understanding of what players really need. Everything, from our popular batting gloves that improve comfort and grip, to protective gear that keeps you safe at the plate, is carefully designed with athlete’s needs in mind. 

Becoming an exceptional hitter depends on you, but having the proper gear certainly gives you an edge in achieving your goal. With BRUCE BOLT, you have a partner who understands your needs, shares your ambition, and provides you the tools to get there.