1. What is ERA in Baseball?

ERA (Earned Run Average) is a statistic that measures a pitcher's effectiveness, representing the average number of earned runs a pitcher allows per nine innings pitched. It's one of the most commonly used statistics for evaluating pitchers.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the ERA equation:

Where:

• \( Earned\ Runs \) — Runs scored without benefit of errors
• \( Innings\ Pitched \) — Total innings pitched (can include fractions like 6.2)
• \( 9 \) — Standard number of innings in a game

Explanation: The equation scales the earned runs to a standard 9-inning game to allow comparison between pitchers.

3. Importance of ERA Calculation

Details: ERA is crucial for evaluating pitcher performance, comparing pitchers across different teams and eras, and making strategic decisions about pitcher usage.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter earned runs as a whole number and innings pitched can include fractions (e.g., 6.2 for 6⅔ innings). Both values must be valid (earned runs ≥ 0, innings pitched > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's considered a good ERA?
A: In modern baseball, ERA below 4.00 is generally good, below 3.00 is excellent, and below 2.00 is exceptional.

Q2: How does ERA differ from RA?
A: ERA only counts earned runs (without errors), while RA (Run Average) counts all runs allowed.

Q3: Why multiply by 9 in the formula?
A: This standardizes the statistic to a full 9-inning game, allowing comparison between relievers and starters.

Q4: Are there limitations to ERA?
A: ERA doesn't account for ballpark factors, defensive support, or inherited runners scored by relievers.

Q5: How should partial innings be entered?
A: Enter as decimals (e.g., 6.1 for 6⅓ innings, 6.2 for 6⅔ innings). The calculator handles the conversion.