Runs batted in — RBI — measure how many runs a hitter produces with his at-bats. Every time a runner scores thanks to his turn at the plate, he’s credited with a run batted in.
What counts as an RBI?
Runs count when they score on a hit, a home run (including his own), a sacrifice fly or a bases-loaded walk. They do not count if the run scores on an error or while grounding into a double play.
How to read it
| RBI in a season | Level |
|---|---|
| 100 or more | Big run producer |
| 80 – 99 | Very good |
| 60 – 79 | Average for an everyday hitter |
Examples with players
- Albert Pujols is one of the greatest run producers in history, second all-time.
- Manny Ramírez and David Ortiz were RBI machines in the heart of Boston’s lineup.
[Live data — MLB API] Current-season RBI leaders: (filled in automatically).
Leaders and records
- Single-season record: Hack Wilson, with 191 in 1930.
- Career record: Hank Aaron, with 2,297.
Why it matters (and the debate)
RBI reward producing runs, but they depend heavily on teammates: a hitter needs runners on base to drive them in. That’s why sabermetrics complements it with metrics that isolate individual merit, like wRC+.
Related stats
Frequently asked questions
Does a home run count as an RBI?
Yes, the batter drives himself in, plus any runners on base.
Why do RBI spark debate?
Because they depend on having teammates on base, something the hitter doesn’t control.
