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Hard-Hit Rate
Hard-hit rate is the percentage of batted balls hit above a set exit-velocity threshold (typically 95 mph in MLB, adjusted by level). It is a better measure of contact quality than batting average.
Because batting average is noisy and luck-dependent, hard-hit rate is a more stable signal of how well a hitter is actually striking the ball. A high hard-hit rate with mediocre results usually predicts improvement; a low one with good results often predicts regression. It is adjusted downward for youth and amateur levels.
Example
A hitter batting .250 but with a 50% hard-hit rate is likely "unlucky" and due for better results.
Related terms
- Exit Velocity (EV)Exit velocity is how fast the ball comes off the bat, in mph. It is a ceiling metric — the harder you hit it, the farther it can go.
- BarrelA barrel is a batted ball with both high exit velocity and an optimal launch angle at the same time — the combination most likely to become an extra-base hit.
Related guides & benchmarks
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