What is Slugging Percentage (SLG)?

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What is SLG?

In the last couple of videos, we learned that while On-Base Percentage can be more useful than Batting Average, both metrics lack the ability to properly weigh different types of hits. A single is not the same as a double, and a double is not as valuable as a home run.

This is what leads us to the next stat called Slugging Percentage, which accounts for these other values.

SLG Explained
Slugging Percentage, abbreviated as “SLG”, works similarly to Batting Average, but instead it applies a weight equal to the number of bases each hit is worth. These figures are weighted because each hit type has a different impact on run-scoring values.

Singles are multiplied by one, doubles by two, triples by three, and home runs by four. All of these outcomes are added together and divided by the number of at-bats.

The equation for SLG looks like this:
(1B*1 + 2B*2 + 3B*3 + HR*4) / AB

For example, a player hits 51 singles, 18 doubles, 5 triples, and 7 home runs in 281 at-bats. In this season, he would have recorded a .463 SLG%, which would rank slightly above the MLB average. In most years in MLB, a .450 slugging percentage is above average, with the best power hitters above .500.

We use Slugging Percentage as a means to complement a hitter’s contribution on offense when compared with Batting Average and On-Base Percentage. However, the values that are used for each hit type in SLG don’t paint a complete picture, which is why we use more advanced metrics today.

Summary
The idea behind SLG is that it's not enough to know how often a hitter can get hits. It is extremely beneficial to know what types of hits they are getting so we can accurately measure their offensive capabilities whether we are optimizing our lineup or selecting a pinch hitter.

Knowing who can produce extra-base hits at a high rate is crucial for analyzing a roster, and understanding this concept can help put your team in the best position to score runs.

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