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Posted By: Brian H

Not to say that it is a meaningless or worthless stat -- but I think batting average is significantly overrated. Conversely, walks (by hitters) is underrated as is on-base-percentage (Walks & Hit by Pitch & Hits / plate apparences). Unless a hit is more than a single or advances a runner by more than one base it is no more than equal to a walk. Also, unintentional walks wear down Pitchers.

Several great "walkers": John McGraw, Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, Rickey Henderson, Frank Thomas, Barry Bonds and Jason Giambi. Overrated great hitters who didn't/don't walk enough : George Sisler and Vlad Geurrero.