What Is A Good OBP In Baseball? Stat Standards

A good On-Base Percentage (OBP) in baseball is generally considered to be .340 or higher, indicating a player consistently reaches base through hits, walks, or being hit by a pitch at an above-average rate, significantly contributing to their team's offensive opportunities.

What Is a Good OBP in Baseball? Stat Standards

Baseball is a game of numbers, and understanding those numbers helps us truly appreciate the depth and strategy behind every pitch and swing. Among the most crucial offensive statistics, On-Base Percentage (OBP) stands out as a fundamental measure of a hitter's value. It tells us how often a player gets on base, which is, after all, the first step to scoring runs. We’ve spent countless hours watching games, dissecting box scores, and analyzing player performance, and what we've consistently observed is that OBP is an indispensable tool for evaluating a player's true offensive contribution.

Many fans might first look at batting average, which simply shows how often a player gets a hit. But when we look beyond just hits, we uncover a more complete picture of offensive prowess. OBP includes not only hits but also walks and times a player is hit by a pitch. These seemingly small additions make a big difference, showing us a player's ability to avoid outs and create opportunities for their team. We've seen firsthand how a high OBP can be the engine that drives an entire offense. So, what is a good OBP in baseball? The answer involves understanding its calculation, its evolution, and the context in which we view it.

Understanding On-Base Percentage (OBP): More Than Just Batting Average

For anyone who loves baseball, getting a player on base is paramount. A player on first base means a single can move them to third, or a double can bring them home. Each time a player avoids making an out and reaches base, they extend an inning and give the next batter a chance to drive in a run. This is the core reason why OBP is such a celebrated statistic.

The Core Calculation: How OBP is Determined

Calculating On-Base Percentage is quite straightforward, yet it captures so much. The formula is:

OBP = (Hits + Walks + Hit By Pitch) / (At-Bats + Walks + Hit By Pitch + Sacrifice Flies)

Let's break down each part:

Hits: These are the traditional singles, doubles, triples, and home runs. Every time a player gets a hit, they reach base.
Walks (Bases on Balls – BB): When a pitcher throws four pitches outside the strike zone, the batter gets to go to first base without swinging. This is not an at-bat, but it is a way to get on base.
Hit By Pitch (HBP): If a pitcher throws a pitch that hits the batter, the batter is awarded first base. Again, this isn't an at-bat, but it's another way to reach base.
At-Bats (AB): This is the total number of times a batter steps to the plate, not counting walks, hit-by-pitches, sacrifice bunts, or sacrifice flies.
Sacrifice Flies (SF): When a player hits a fly ball that is caught, but a runner on third base tags up and scores, this is a sacrifice fly. The batter does not get an at-bat, but also doesn't earn a higher OBP for this specific outcome, as the intent is to drive in a run, not necessarily reach base.

We notice that strikeouts are included in at-bats but walks and hit-by-pitches are not. This is key: OBP directly rewards plate discipline and the ability to avoid making outs. It’s a clean measure of how often a player avoids putting the ball in play in a way that results in an out, or how often they get a hit.

Why OBP Matters: A Foundation for Offensive Success

From our perspective as long-time observers of the game, OBP is foundational. A player with a high OBP keeps the line moving, creates traffic on the base paths, and forces the opposing pitcher to work harder, throwing more pitches. This wears down pitchers, potentially leading to more mistakes and opportunities for the entire offense.

Think about a lineup full of players who consistently get on base. Even if they aren't hitting home runs every time, they are manufacturing scoring chances. Runners on base mean more pressure on the defense, more opportunities for stolen bases, and more chances for a single to turn into an RBI. We've seen firsthand how teams built around high OBP players, even without a ton of power, can be incredibly effective at scoring runs. It's a testament to the idea that consistent base-running opportunities are more valuable than sporadic big hits. For a team looking to consistently produce runs, understanding what is a good OBP in baseball is essential.

What Is a Good OBP in Baseball? Stat Standards for Different Eras and Levels

Defining what is a good OBP in baseball isn't a static answer. It changes based on the context: the overall offensive environment of the league, the specific position a player plays, and even the strategic philosophy of their team. Our experience tells us that benchmarks are helpful, but never absolute.

General Benchmarks: Defining "Good," "Average," and "Excellent" OBP

When we analyze current MLB statistics, we use certain thresholds to classify OBP performance. These general benchmarks give us a quick way to assess a player's ability to get on base:

Elite/Exceptional: .400+
- Players with an OBP in this range are truly special. They are the best in the game at getting on base, often combining strong hitting with exceptional plate discipline. We rarely see many players sustain this level over a full season.
Excellent/Great: .370 – .399
- These players are among the top tier of offensive contributors. They consistently create base-running opportunities and are often cornerstone pieces of their team's offense.
Good/Above Average: .340 – .369
- This is where we typically define what is a good OBP in baseball. Players in this range are solid, reliable offensive performers who consistently contribute to their team's ability to score runs. They are valuable assets in any lineup.
Average: .310 – .339
- Players here are meeting expectations. They get on base at a respectable rate but don't necessarily stand out for their base-getting skills alone. This is often the league average OBP.
Below Average: .290 – .309
- These players are struggling to get on base consistently. Their contribution in this area might be a concern, unless they are providing exceptional value in other areas like power or defense.
Poor: Below .290
- An OBP in this range suggests a significant issue with getting on base, which can be a major detriment to a team's offense.

These are general guidelines we've found useful over the years, but they are not rigid rules. The actual league average OBP can fluctuate from year to year, so always consider the current offensive environment.

The Evolving Standard: OBP Across Different Eras

Baseball, like any sport, evolves. The "good" standards of today are not necessarily the same as they were decades ago. We've seen distinct offensive eras:

The Dead-Ball Era (Early 1900s): Offense was low, and home runs were rare. OBP was still important, but raw numbers might seem low by modern standards. A .350 OBP would have been truly exceptional.
The Golden Age (1920s-1950s): With Babe Ruth ushering in the home run era, offense picked up. High OBPs became more common, often driven by power hitters who also drew walks.
The Pitcher's Era (1960s-1970s): Pitching dominated, and offensive numbers, including OBP, generally declined. A .330 OBP might have been considered good.
The Steroid Era (Late 1990s-Early 2000s): Offense exploded, with inflated home run numbers and, consequently, higher OBPs across the board. A .360 OBP might have just been average for some power hitters.
Modern Era (2010s-Present): We've seen shifts, including a dip in batting averages but an emphasis on walks and power, keeping OBP values generally respectable. We observe that while batting averages might fluctuate, the value of getting on base remains constant. The average OBP in MLB today tends to hover around .310-.320. Therefore, when we ask what is a good OBP in baseball in the contemporary game, we are still looking for numbers significantly above that average.

Understanding these historical shifts helps us appreciate context. Comparing a .350 OBP from the 1960s to a .350 OBP today requires acknowledging these different offensive landscapes.

Positional Nuances: When OBP Expectations Shift

Not all positions are created equal when it comes to offensive expectations, and this naturally affects what we consider a good OBP. We've consistently observed that certain positions inherently demand higher offensive output.

First Basemen, Corner Outfielders (Left Field, Right Field), Designated Hitters: These are typically offensive-minded positions. We expect these players to be among the best hitters on the team, often carrying higher power numbers, but also demonstrating excellent plate discipline and consistently high OBPs. For these positions, a good OBP starts closer to .350 or even .360. An OBP of .330 might be considered average for them.
Second Basemen, Third Basemen, Center Fielders: These positions often balance offense with strong defense or speed. While they are still expected to contribute offensively, their OBP expectations might be slightly lower than power positions. A .340 OBP would be quite good here, with .320- .330 being average.
Shortstops, Catchers: Historically, these are defense-first positions. Any offensive production, especially a good OBP, is a significant bonus. For a shortstop or catcher, a .320 OBP might be considered good, and anything above that is excellent. We've learned to appreciate offensive production from these spots, understanding the high physical demands and defensive responsibilities.
Pitchers: In leagues where pitchers hit (like the National League before the universal DH), their offensive contributions are minimal. Any OBP above .100 for a pitcher is often noteworthy, simply because they are not professional hitters.

When we evaluate a player, we always factor in their position. A catcher with a .330 OBP is often more valuable, proportionally, than a first baseman with the same OBP, given the typical offensive expectations for each role. This context is vital when we address what is a good OBP in baseball.

Context is Key: How Team Strategy Impacts OBP Value

Beyond individual player roles, a team's overall strategy can influence how we value OBP.

"Moneyball" Approach: Teams heavily focused on analytics often prioritize OBP. We've seen how teams, inspired by the "Moneyball" philosophy, actively seek out players with high OBPs, understanding that getting runners on base is the most efficient way to score runs, regardless of traditional hitting prowess. In these systems, a player with a good OBP is an absolute cornerstone.
Power-First Approach: Some teams emphasize hitting for power and rely on home runs to score runs. While OBP is still important, a player might be valued more for their slugging percentage (SLG) or home run totals, even with a slightly lower OBP. However, even with power, a high OBP ensures that when those home runs are hit, there are often runners on base to drive in, maximizing run production.
Small Ball/Speed Teams: Teams that rely on speed, stolen bases, and bunting also highly value OBP. Getting on base is the prerequisite for initiating their offensive strategy. A good OBP is crucial for setting the table.

Our observation is that regardless of the team's specific strategy, OBP remains a critical metric. It's the universal language of getting runners on base, and no matter how a team wants to score, they first need players on the diamond.

Beyond the Numbers: Deeper Insights into OBP Performance

While the calculation is simple, the story OBP tells is rich and complex. It's not just about the final number; it's about how that number is achieved and what it means for the game. We look at the components of OBP to truly understand a player's approach at the plate.

The Art of Getting On Base: Walks, Hit-by-Pitches, and Error

OBP uniquely credits a player for reaching base without necessarily getting a hit. This highlights aspects of hitting that batting average ignores:

Plate Discipline (Walks): We've always admired players who possess exceptional plate discipline. These are the hitters who know the strike zone intimately, resisting the urge to swing at pitches just outside. Drawing walks is not passive; it's an active display of patience, skill, and an understanding of the pitcher's tendencies. A high walk rate, contributing significantly to OBP, indicates a player who forces pitchers to throw strikes, often wearing them down or forcing them to serve up a pitch they can hit. Think about legendary figures known for their walks, like Ted Williams or Barry Bonds, whose OBPs were consistently astronomical due to their unmatched ability to lay off bad pitches.
Toughness (Hit-by-Pitches): While not a skill in the traditional sense, a willingness to stand in and take an HBP shows toughness and commitment to getting on base. Some players have a knack for getting hit, adding valuable base runners to the mix. It's a small but meaningful contributor to OBP.
Reaching on Error: It's important to remember that OBP specifically excludes reaching base on an error. If a player hits a ground ball and an infielder drops it, resulting in the player reaching base, this is recorded as a fielder's choice or an error, and the batter does not get a hit or improve their OBP. This is a deliberate choice in the OBP calculation to focus on a player's direct actions to get on base, rather than defensive miscues.

When we analyze what is a good OBP in baseball, we often look at the breakdown: Is the OBP high because of many hits, many walks, or a balanced mix? A high OBP primarily driven by walks often points to a disciplined hitter who grinds out at-bats, while one driven purely by hits might be more prone to slumps if their hitting rhythm falters.

OBP vs. Batting Average: A Crucial Distinction

For years, batting average (BA) was king. It’s easy to understand: hits divided by at-bats. But as sabermetrics gained traction, we, along with many others, began to realize its limitations.

Batting Average: Only counts hits. Treats a single the same as a home run. Ignores walks and hit-by-pitches. A .300 BA is often considered excellent.
On-Base Percentage: Counts hits, walks, and hit-by-pitches. Recognizes that getting on base by any means is valuable. A .300 OBP is below average.

We’ve seen players with similar batting averages but vastly different OBPs. A player might hit .280 with a .380 OBP because they walk a lot. Another might hit .300 but only have a .330 OBP because they rarely walk. The player with the .380 OBP is almost always more valuable offensively because they are on base 10% more often, creating significantly more scoring opportunities for their team. OBP provides a more comprehensive picture of a player’s ability to avoid an out and occupy a base, which is why we consider it a superior stat to batting average for evaluating offensive value.

Legendary OBP: Historic Examples and Their Impact

Studying the history of baseball provides context for what is a good OBP in baseball. We’ve seen some incredible OBP performers throughout the game's history, and they universally stand out as offensive titans.

Ted Williams: Often called the greatest hitter of all time, Williams holds the all-time career OBP record at .482. His unparalleled plate discipline meant he rarely swung at a bad pitch, leading to an incredible number of walks alongside his prodigious hitting. His approach demonstrated the power of OBP before it was widely appreciated.
Babe Ruth: Known for his monstrous home runs, Ruth also had an incredible OBP, with a career mark of .474. His ability to draw walks in addition to hitting homers made him an offensive juggernaut who perpetually put himself in scoring position.
Barry Bonds: In the heart of the steroid era, Bonds' OBP reached unthinkable levels, peaking at an absurd .609 in 2004. Even discounting any controversies, his plate discipline was legendary; pitchers simply refused to throw him strikes, and he capitalized by taking walks, leading to some of the highest OBP seasons ever recorded.
Joey Votto: In the modern era, Votto stands out for his consistently high OBP. He routinely led the league in walks and maintained an OBP well over .400 for many seasons, showcasing how a patient, disciplined approach can make a player incredibly valuable, even if they aren't leading the league in home runs.

These players exemplify how a truly elite OBP fundamentally transforms an offense, forcing opponents to pitch around them and creating relentless pressure. Their careers underscore precisely what is a good OBP in baseball at the highest levels of the game.

The Practical Application of OBP: How We Use This Stat

OBP isn't just an abstract number; it's a practical tool for evaluating players, constructing lineups, and even making decisions in fantasy baseball and sports betting. We've consistently relied on OBP to gain a deeper understanding of offensive performance.

Evaluating Player Value: Identifying Hidden Gems and Consistent Contributors

When we scout players or analyze trades, OBP is a crucial metric.

Identifying Underrated Players: Sometimes, a player might have a "low" batting average, which can make them seem less impressive. However, if that player has a high OBP due to a strong walk rate, they might be an undervalued asset. We've seen teams find success by acquiring these players, recognizing their true ability to get on base despite not hitting for a high average. They are the "hidden gems" that might not get flashy headlines but contribute consistently.
Assessing Consistency: Players with consistently high OBPs often demonstrate a disciplined approach that is less prone to wild fluctuations than pure batting average. Slumps can happen, but a player who can still draw walks during a hitless streak maintains some offensive value, preventing their OBP from plummeting as severely as their batting average.
Predicting Future Performance: While not a perfect predictor, a strong OBP, especially one supported by a good walk-to-strikeout ratio, can often indicate a sustainable skill set that will translate to future success. It suggests an underlying understanding of the strike zone and a selective approach that can endure.

When we consider what is a good OBP in baseball for player evaluation, we're not just looking for big numbers; we're looking for sustainable offensive intelligence.

Building a Winning Lineup: Strategic OBP Considerations

A manager’s job involves crafting a lineup that maximizes run-scoring opportunities. OBP plays a significant role in this strategy.

Lead-off Hitters: We've always emphasized that the lead-off hitter should have a high OBP. Their primary job is to get on base for the sluggers behind them. A lead-off hitter with a .360+ OBP can set the table for the entire game. They might not hit many home runs, but their ability to consistently reach base means more chances for the big bats to drive in runs.
On-Base Machines in Key Spots: Placing players with high OBPs before power hitters (e.g., in the 2-hole) ensures that when the home run hitters come up, there are often runners on base, turning solo shots into two-run or three-run homers.
Avoiding "Rally Killers": Conversely, a player with a low OBP in a key spot in the lineup can be a "rally killer," ending innings quickly and squandering opportunities. We've seen countless games where a struggling hitter consistently makes quick outs, stifling potential rallies.

Understanding what is a good OBP in baseball helps managers create balanced lineups that optimize the flow of base runners and capitalize on scoring chances.

Fantasy Baseball and Sports Betting: Leveraging OBP for an Edge

For those who play fantasy baseball or engage in sports betting, OBP is an invaluable stat.

Fantasy Baseball: Many fantasy leagues now include OBP as a category, or even replace batting average with it. For us, targeting players with high OBPs, even if their batting average isn't elite, often leads to success. These players contribute consistently in ways that traditional stats might overlook. They might not hit 40 home runs, but their regular presence on base translates to more runs scored and potentially more stolen bases, boosting multiple fantasy categories.
Sports Betting: When evaluating team matchups, looking at a team’s collective OBP can be more insightful than just their team batting average. A team with a high OBP is likely to generate more scoring chances, which can be a key factor in predicting game outcomes, especially in close games or when evaluating run totals. We’ve used OBP as a proxy for a team's offensive efficiency and ability to put pressure on opposing pitchers.

OBP offers a predictive quality that makes it highly useful for strategic decision-making beyond just in-game management.

Improving On-Base Percentage: Actionable Steps for Players

For players looking to elevate their game, focusing on OBP can be a game-changer. We've often advised players that it's not just about hitting; it's about being a smarter, more disciplined batter. Here are some actionable steps we've seen players successfully implement.

Plate Discipline: Mastering the Strike Zone

The most direct way to improve OBP is to improve plate discipline. This means learning to distinguish between balls and strikes, and only swinging at pitches you can hit well.

Know Your Zone: Every player has a different "hot zone" and a different visual interpretation of the strike zone. Practice recognizing pitches out of the zone. Take pitches that are clearly balls, even if they're close. We've worked with players who spent hours just watching pitches go by in practice, learning to identify what a ball looks like.
Develop a Plan: Before each at-bat, have a plan. Are you looking for a specific pitch in a specific location? If you don't get it, are you prepared to take a walk? This proactive approach helps reduce chasing bad pitches.
Two-Strike Approach: With two strikes, the zone effectively expands, but good hitters still fight to extend the at-bat. We advise choking up on the bat, widening the stance, and focusing on simply making contact to foul off tough pitches, hoping the pitcher makes a mistake or walks you.

Mastering the strike zone isn't about being passive; it's about being smart and patient, leading directly to a higher walk rate and a better OBP.

Two-Strike Approach: The Art of Fouling Off Pitches

Once a hitter has two strikes, the goal often shifts from hitting for power to simply putting the ball in play or extending the at-bat.

Protect the Plate: We coach players to expand their mental strike zone slightly with two strikes, but still with a purpose. Focus on making contact, even if it’s just a foul tip. Fouling off pitches keeps you alive and forces the pitcher to throw more pitches.
Battle Mode: This is where the grit comes in. Legendary hitters like Tony Gwynn were masters of fouling off pitches until they got one they could hit. This not only keeps you from striking out but also increases the chances of drawing a walk as the pitcher tires or makes a mistake.
Situational Awareness: With two strikes and runners on base, especially with two outs, just getting the ball in play can create an opportunity. A weak ground ball might result in an infield error, and you're on base, raising your OBP.

This disciplined approach with two strikes is a hallmark of players with high OBPs.

Situational Hitting: Knowing When to Take a Walk

Good hitters understand that sometimes the best swing is no swing at all.

Runner on Base, First Base Open: If there's a runner on second or third and first base is open, the pitcher might be hesitant to throw you strikes, knowing a walk puts another runner on for the next batter. Recognize these situations and be prepared to take the walk if the pitches aren't good.
Key Game Moments: In tight games, particularly late, pitchers are under immense pressure. They might overthrow or miss their spots. A patient approach can force a walk, which can be as valuable as a hit in manufacturing a crucial run.
Opponent's Pitching: Knowing which pitchers struggle with control can inform your approach. Against a wild pitcher, we've seen players consciously shorten their swing and focus on taking pitches, knowing walks are more likely.

These nuanced approaches demonstrate that improving OBP is as much about mental strategy as it is about physical mechanics. When we discuss what is a good OBP in baseball, we are really discussing a player's all-around offensive intelligence.

Common Misconceptions About OBP

Despite its growing acceptance, OBP still faces some misunderstandings. We've encountered these common myths repeatedly and believe it's important to address them for a complete understanding of the stat.

OBP Only Rewards Walkers: Addressing the Myth

One common misconception we hear is that OBP unfairly inflates the value of players who "only walk" and don't get many hits. This is simply not true.

OBP Values Hits Highly: Hits are still the most direct way to get on base. A player with a high batting average will almost always have a good OBP, assuming they don't strike out excessively. Hits are a significant component of the OBP calculation.
Walks are Offensive Contributions: While not as flashy as a hit, a walk is still a direct contribution to getting a runner on base and avoiding an out. It's a skill that wears down pitchers and creates scoring opportunities. Dismissing walks undervalues a key offensive tactic.
Balanced Approach: The most valuable players often have a high OBP because they combine a respectable batting average with a strong walk rate. Think of players like Mike Trout or Freddie Freeman; they hit for average and power, but also have elite plate discipline, leading to phenomenal OBPs. We see that these players embody what is a good OBP in baseball through a comprehensive skill set.

OBP is a holistic measure that credits all legitimate ways a player reaches base, not just one specific method.

OBP Ignores Power: Understanding its Complementary Role

Another misconception is that OBP ignores a player's power. This isn't accurate; rather, OBP works in conjunction with power statistics.

Power is Part of Hits: Home runs, doubles, and triples are all hits, and they all contribute to OBP. A player who hits many home runs will naturally have a higher OBP than a player with fewer hits, all else being equal.
Complementary Statistics: OBP is often paired with Slugging Percentage (SLG) to form On-Base Plus Slugging (OPS). While OBP tells us how often a player gets on base, SLG tells us how far they advance when they do get a hit (measuring power). OPS combines both, providing an even more comprehensive look at offensive production. We regularly use OPS to quickly assess a player's overall offensive value, understanding that OBP covers the "getting on base" part and SLG covers the "power" part.
The Best Players Have Both: The truly elite offensive players in baseball history excelled at both getting on base and hitting for power. Their OBPs were high, and their SLGs were high, leading to stratospheric OPS numbers. This shows that OBP doesn't ignore power; instead, it provides a crucial baseline upon which power hitting can build to become truly devastating.

We've learned that understanding OBP isn't about replacing other stats, but rather about using it as a critical piece of the puzzle that makes up a player's complete offensive profile.

Conclusion

In the intricate dance of baseball, getting on base is the essential first step toward scoring runs and winning games. On-Base Percentage offers a powerful, nuanced lens through which we can evaluate a player's ability to create these opportunities. We’ve explored what is a good OBP in baseball from various angles, acknowledging that it’s not just a number, but a reflection of plate discipline, strategic acumen, and consistent offensive contribution.

From the general benchmarks that guide our initial assessments to the historical context that reminds us of the game's evolving nature, and the positional nuances that adjust our expectations, OBP remains a vital statistic. It stands apart from batting average by recognizing the value of walks and hit-by-pitches, painting a more complete picture of a player's offensive impact. We continually rely on OBP to identify valuable players, construct effective lineups, and even gain an edge in fantasy leagues.

For any player aspiring to improve or any fan hoping to deepen their understanding of the game, embracing the significance of OBP is crucial. It champions the often-unsung heroes who consistently keep innings alive, wear down pitchers, and set the stage for their teammates to drive in runs. Ultimately, a good OBP is a hallmark of intelligent, productive offense, proving time and again that the ability to simply get on base is a profound and fundamental skill in the beautiful game of baseball.

FAQ

Q1: What is the primary difference between OBP and batting average?
A1: OBP includes walks and hit-by-pitches as ways to reach base, whereas batting average only counts hits, making OBP a more comprehensive measure of how often a player avoids making an out and gets on base.

Q2: What is considered an excellent OBP in Major League Baseball today?
A2: An OBP of .370 or higher is generally considered excellent in today's Major League Baseball, signaling a top-tier ability to get on base consistently.

Q3: Does OBP account for a player's power-hitting ability?
A3: OBP includes all hits, including home runs, doubles, and triples, so it reflects power as part of getting on base, but it does not specifically measure extra-base hits or total bases like slugging percentage does.

Q4: Why is OBP considered more valuable than batting average by many baseball analysts?
A4: Many analysts consider OBP more valuable because it better reflects a player's ability to contribute to scoring runs by consistently avoiding outs and creating baserunners, which is the foundation of offensive production.

Q5: How has the average OBP in baseball changed over different eras?
A5: The average OBP has fluctuated across different eras due to changes in pitching, hitting styles, and rules, with some periods seeing higher offensive production and thus higher average OBPs than others.

Q6: Can a player with a low batting average still have a good OBP?
A6: Yes, a player can have a relatively low batting average but still achieve a good OBP if they draw a significant number of walks and/or are hit by pitches frequently, demonstrating strong plate discipline.

Q7: What OBP would be considered average in modern MLB?
A7: A modern MLB average OBP typically hovers around .310 to .320, meaning players in this range are performing at a league-average level in getting on base.

Q8: How can a player improve their On-Base Percentage?
A8: A player can improve their OBP by developing better plate discipline to draw more walks, focusing on a two-strike approach to foul off pitches and extend at-bats, and improving their overall hitting consistency.