The ISO power number, or Isolated Power, is a baseball statistic that measures a hitter's raw power by focusing exclusively on extra-base hits. It quantifies how often a player hits for extra bases.
Understanding ISO
ISO distinguishes itself from other offensive stats by isolating a player's ability to hit for power, removing singles from the equation. It specifically accounts for the type of extra-base hit a player achieves.
How is ISO Calculated?
The formula for calculating ISO is:
ISO = (Doubles + 2 * Triples + 3 * Home Runs) / At BatsExample of ISO
According to the provided reference, a player who goes 1-for-5 with a double has an ISO of .200. Here's how that's calculated:
- The player had 1 double.
- The player had 5 at-bats.
- ISO = (1 Double + 0 Triples + 0 Home Runs) / 5 At-Bats
- ISO = 1/5 = 0.200
Therefore, the player's ISO is .200.
Why is ISO Important?
ISO is a valuable tool for evaluating a hitter's power because it:
- Focuses on extra-base hits: It gives a clearer picture of a player's ability to generate power and drive the ball for distance.
- Differentiates between types of hits: It weighs home runs more heavily than doubles, reflecting their greater impact on scoring runs.
Comparison to Other Stats
While batting average measures overall hitting ability, ISO zeroes in on power. A player with a high batting average might not necessarily have a high ISO, and vice-versa. A player with a high ISO is consistently hitting for extra bases, a key component of offensive production.
