On-base Plus Slugging (OPS)

Definition

OPS adds on-base percentage and slugging percentage to get one number that unites the two. It's meant to combine how well a hitter can reach base, with how well he can hit for average and for power.

It can also be used in evaluating pitchers; when used in that context, it is referred to as OPS against.

Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig

Babe Ruth (left) ranks first all-time in AL-NL history with a career 1.164 OPS, while longtime Yankees teammate Lou Gehrig is third at 1.079. Ted Williams is second with a 1.116 lifetime OPS. (AP)