Softball Hitting Statistics - What Matters

A couple of days ago, I sent an email where I discuss the fact that you shouldn't focus on your batting average but on your on-base percentage.

In my opinion, this is a much better indication of your overall performance at the plate.  Reaching a base on an error or a walk is a good as getting a hit.

I received an interesting reply from Coach Andy Collins who commented by saying:

"I just wanted to add a point of clarification.  Getting on with an error does not raise your on base percentage.  It doesn't mean you shouldn't be trying to hit it hard to create an error, if it doesn't go through the gaps and it doesn't negate your point about getting on is more important than being concerned with batting average, but it just doesn't raise the OBA.  Another important thing to focus on is taking the extra base, raising the slugging percentage, which is why many people feel the OPS (OBA + Slugging Pct) is the most accurate indicator of the value of a hitter (at least for simple formulas)".

I actually thought of it that way but it does make sense to me. I thought this was very interesting and wanted to share it with you.