WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched)

A measure of how many baserunners a pitcher allows per inning — lower is better.

WHIP is calculated by adding walks and hits allowed, then dividing by innings pitched. It measures a pitcher's ability to keep runners off base, regardless of whether those runners eventually scored.

WHIP benchmarks: - Below 1.00: elite (Cy Young–caliber) - 1.00–1.19: very good (above-average starter) - 1.20–1.39: average - 1.40+: below average

Unlike ERA, WHIP is not influenced by run-scoring events like sacrifice flies or inherited runners. It captures command and contact management in a single number. For Hall of Fame pitchers, a career WHIP below 1.15 is a strong credential.