On-Base Plus Slugging (OPS) is a simple yet effective statistic used to evaluate a hitter’s overall offensive production. It’s calculated by adding a player’s on-base percentage (OBP) to their slugging percentage (SLG). On-base percentage reflects how frequently a batter reaches base, while slugging percentage measures a batter’s power, or total bases per at-bat. For example, a player with a .350 OBP and a .500 SLG would have an .850 OPS (.350 + .500 = .850).
The appeal of this particular metric lies in its ability to condense two important offensive skills getting on base and hitting for power into a single, easily digestible number. Historically, batting average was the primary statistic used to judge hitters. However, batting average undervalues walks and extra-base hits. OPS provides a more holistic view of a player’s offensive contributions, giving greater weight to a player’s ability to get on base and generate extra bases. A high result generally indicates a potent offensive player, as it reflects both the ability to consistently reach base and to hit with power.