ERA (Earned Run Average)
Average earned runs a pitcher allows per nine innings. The standard measure of pitching effectiveness.
Full Definition
ERA calculates the average number of earned runs a pitcher allows per nine innings pitched. Unearned runs (caused by errors) are excluded. While ERA is the most recognized pitching stat, it can be misleading because it's influenced by defense, ballpark, and luck on batted balls. For betting, ERA is best used alongside peripheral stats like K/9, WHIP, and Whiff% to get a complete picture of pitcher quality.
What's a good ERA?
Below 3.00 is elite, 3.00-3.50 is excellent, 3.50-4.20 is average, above 4.50 is below average.
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Read our in-depth guideRelated terms
WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning)
Walks plus hits allowed divided by innings pitched. Measures baserunner traffic.
Strikeout Rate (K/9 & K%)
How often a pitcher records strikeouts per 9 innings (K/9) or per batter faced (K%).
Whiff Rate (Whiff%)
Percentage of swings that result in misses. Measures a pitcher's ability to generate swings and misses.
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