The earned run average (ERA) of a pitcher is a statistic that is used to calculate how many runs a pitcher gives up on average over the course of a full game pitched by that pitcher. The lower a pitcher’s earned run average (ERA) is, the better. The earned run average (ERA) of a softball pitcher is calculated using a formula that is nearly identical to the formula used to calculate the ERA of a baseball pitcher; the only difference is that the softball formula takes into basketball legends consideration a shorter standard game (seven innings) rather than the typical nine-inning baseball game.
Investigate the number of earned runs that a particular softball pitcher has surrendered over a specific time period of time. Make sure to only include earned runs in your calculations—runs scored as a result of a pitcher’s error do not count toward a pitcher’s earned run average.
Add up the total number of innings pitched over the course of the same time period. Keep in mind to include any partial innings in fraction form (for example, the total number of innings pitched during the first three weeks of the season might be 15 1/3).
Divide the number of runs scored by the number of innings pitched to get the final score. This provides you with the pitcher’s earned run average (ERA) for each inning of work. If you’re looking for the earned run average per game played, you’re not finished yet.
The result of Step 3 should be multiplied by 7, which is the typical number of innings in a softball game. The resulting number represents your softball pitcher’s earned run average (ERA) per game.
Tips
Because runs scored as a result of errors are not included in your ERA, the statistic provides an accurate assessment of a pitcher’s worth. It also makes it easier to compare pitchers from two different teams when one of the teams is lacking in defensive ability.
