On-Base Percentage
On-Base Percentage (OBP) is a baseball statistic that measures how frequently a player reaches base. It is calculated by adding the number of hits, walks, and hit-by-pitches, then dividing that total by the sum of at-bats, walks, hit-by-pitches, and sacrifices. This statistic provides insight into a player's ability to get on base, which is crucial for scoring runs.
A higher OBP indicates a better performance at the plate, as it reflects a player's skill in avoiding outs. Unlike batting average, which only considers hits, OBP accounts for all ways a player can reach base, making it a more comprehensive measure of offensive effectiveness.