Library Update: Earned Run Average

Long-time readers of FanGraphs probably don’t need to spend much time reading up on Earned Run Average (ERA), but if you’re new to the site or to the understanding of sabermetrics, diving into the flaws of some of the more traditional metrics is a good way to learn about the value of the new ones.

This week, we’ve updated the ERA section of the Library to offer a little more information about why our writers prefer to talk about things like Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) or Runs Allowed per 9 (RA9) instead of ERA. ERA has its place in context, but there are usually better alternatives if you’re trying to evaluate the quality of a given pitcher. Head over there to learn more.

As always, feel free to post questions in the comments below or to find me on Twitter with your inquiries @NeilWeinberg44.





Neil Weinberg is the Site Educator at FanGraphs and can be found writing enthusiastically about the Detroit Tigers at New English D. Follow and interact with him on Twitter @NeilWeinberg44.

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Dave Stewart, GM
9 years ago

THANK YOU!!!