Table of Contents
What Is Slugging Percentage?
Slugging percentage measures power by calculating total bases per at-bat. Unlike batting average which treats all hits equally, SLG weights extra-base hits: HR=4, 3B=3, 2B=2, 1B=1. This makes it the primary measure of power hitting ability.
SLG is one of three components of OPS (On-base Plus Slugging), the most widely used quick-reference stat for offensive value. While SLG doesn't account for walks, it captures power that batting average completely misses.
SLG Formula
SLG = (1B + 2×2B + 3×3B + 4×HR) / AB
ISO = SLG - AVG (Isolated Power)
SLG Benchmarks
| Rating | SLG |
|---|---|
| Elite | .550+ |
| Excellent | .500-.549 |
| Above Avg | .450-.499 |
| Average | .400-.449 |
| Below Avg | Below .400 |
FAQ
Highest possible SLG?
4.000 (HR every at-bat). Record: Barry Bonds .863 in 2001.
What is ISO?
Isolated Power = SLG minus AVG. Measures extra bases beyond singles. ISO above .200 is strong; .250+ is elite.
Why can SLG exceed 1.000?
It counts total bases (up to 4 per AB) not success/failure ratio. A solo HR in one AB = 4.000 SLG for that game.