What is ERA in baseball?

ERA (Earned Run Average) is a statistic that measures the average number of earned runs a pitcher allows per 9 innings pitched. It's calculated by dividing earned runs by innings pitched, then multiplying by 9.

A good ERA varies by era, but generally: Below 2.00 is excellent, 2.00-3.00 is very good, 3.00-4.00 is good, 4.00-5.00 is average, and above 5.00 is below average. In modern baseball, an ERA under 4.00 is considered solid.

How do you calculate softball ERA?

Softball ERA is calculated the same way as baseball ERA, but using 7 innings instead of 9. The formula is: (Earned Runs / Innings Pitched) × 7.

ERA Calculator — Baseball & Softball

What is ERA?

ERA (Earned Run Average) is one of the most important statistics in baseball and softball. It represents the average number of earned runs a pitcher allows per 9 innings (baseball) or 7 innings (softball). Unlike total runs, earned runs exclude those scored due to defensive errors, providing a more accurate measure of a pitcher's performance.

How to Calculate ERA

The ERA formula is straightforward: divide the number of earned runs allowed by the number of innings pitched, then multiply by the standard game length (9 for baseball, 7 for softball).


ERA = (Earned Runs / Innings Pitched) × 9 (Baseball) or × 7 (Softball)

ERA Quality Guide

Below 2.00: Excellent - Elite pitcher performance
2.00 - 3.00: Very Good - Above average pitcher
3.00 - 4.00: Good - Solid, reliable pitcher
4.00 - 5.00: Average - Decent pitcher
Above 5.00: Below Average - Needs improvement

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as an earned run?

An earned run is any run that scores without the benefit of an error, catcher's interference, or a passed ball. If a batter reaches base due to an error and later scores, that run is unearned and doesn't count toward ERA.

Why is ERA important?

ERA is a key metric for evaluating pitcher effectiveness. Unlike win-loss records, which depend on team offense and defense, ERA isolates a pitcher's performance. Lower ERA indicates better pitching, making it valuable for player evaluation and fantasy baseball.

Can ERA be used for softball?

Yes, ERA is commonly used in softball. The calculation is the same, but uses 7 innings instead of 9 because softball games are typically 7 innings long. Our calculator supports both sports with an easy toggle.

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