Outs Above Average asks a narrower question than DRS: given how far the fielder had to go, how much time he had, and where he started, how often did he make the play compared to the league?

Because it is built from tracking data rather than scored plays, it is more stable year to year than older defensive metrics and easier to interpret — the units are outs, and each out converts to roughly three-quarters of a run.

It still will not always agree with DRS, and it does not credit the parts of defense that are not range: arm strength on outfield assists, framing behind the plate, or turning the double play. Use it as the best single range number available, next to NUT for the bat and arm.

What is a good OAA?

OAA sits outside NUT by design. NUT covers hitting and pitching only, so a defender’s glove value is read alongside it rather than inside it.

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