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More Sabermetrics Q&A

Astros Sabermetrics: Talking x-BABIP, x-ISO, exit velocity

In this edition of the sabermetrics column, we answer another commenter's question, which becomes a jumping off point for related hitting metrics.  In honor of Yogi Berra: "When you come to a fork in the road, take it."

Question (from Tallahastros): What determines which BABIPs are sustainable? In a case like Altuve’s, how can we tell whether his Babip has increased for good or if it’s luck driven? And could being consistently lucky be considered a skill?

BABIP means batting average on balls in play.