What Does GIDP Mean in Baseball? Explained

By Sarah Miller · October 14, 2034

GIDP in baseball stands for ‘Grounded Into Double Play,’ a statistic recorded when a batter hits a ground ball that results in two outs, with at least one out being made on a force play. This often occurs with runners on base and significantly impacts run expectancy and offensive efficiency.

Understanding GIDP: What It Means and Why It Matters

In baseball, GIDP (Ground Into Double Play) is a key situational hitting statistic used to evaluate both offensive performance and clutch hitting ability. When a batter strikes the ball on the ground and fielders execute a double play—typically via a force-out at second followed by a tag or force at first—the batter is charged with a GIDP.

When Does a GIDP Occur?

The batter hits a ground ball (not a line drive or fly ball).
There are fewer than two outs.
At least one runner is on base, typically on first (required for a force play).
Fielders record two outs as a direct result of the batted ball, with one being a force out.

How GIDP Is Scored and Recorded

Official scorers use specific criteria to assign a GIDP:

The double play must originate from a ground ball hit by the batter.
The batter must be directly involved in the action that leads to two outs.
If an error extends the inning but a double play still occurs, it may not count as a GIDP.

Examples of GIDP Scenarios

Runner on first, no outs: Batter hits a grounder to shortstop, who throws to second for one out, then to first for the second.
Bases loaded, one out: Batter grounds into a 6-4-3 double play, clearing the bases but killing a scoring opportunity.

GIDP Leaders and Historical Trends

Certain hitters accumulate high GIDP totals due to power-hitting styles, low speed, or frequent at-bats in high-leverage situations. Below is a table of recent MLB leaders in GIDP over a full season.

Player	Team (2024)	Games Played	AB	GIDP	OPS
Paul Goldschmidt	New York Yankees	158	572	26	.821
Nathaniel Lowe	Texas Rangers	149	541	24	.723
Yordan Alvarez	Houston Astros	136	489	23	.912
Matt Olson	Atlanta Braves	157	589	22	.876
J.D. Martinez	Los Angeles Dodgers	131	476	21	.789

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that top GIDP leaders are typically middle-of-the-order power hitters with high at-bat volume and limited baserunning speed. Despite frequent double plays, many maintain strong OPS values, indicating their overall offensive value outweighs the GIDP cost. Paul Goldschmidt’s 26 GIDP in 2024 led MLB, reflecting his role in high-leverage spots.

Strategic Impact of GIDP in Baseball

GIDP is more than a counting stat—itreflects situational awareness and team offensive efficiency.

Why GIDP Hurts Offense

Run Expectancy Drop: Turning a potential scoring inning into a double play drastically reduces expected runs.
Kills Momentum: A bases-loaded, no-outs situation can become a two-out jam in one play.
Clutch Performance Indicator: High GIDP in critical spots may suggest poor situational hitting.

Factors Influencing GIDP Rates

Hitter Profile: Power-first sluggers with slower speed tend to ground into more double plays.
Batting Order Position: Third, fourth, and fifth hitters see more runners on base, increasing GIDP opportunities.
Pitching Strategy: Pitchers may induce ground balls against GIDP-prone batters with runners aboard.

How Teams and Analysts Use GIDP Data

Front offices and coaches analyze GIDP rates to assess:

Situational hitting effectiveness under pressure.
Lineup construction—balancing power with contact and speed.
Pinch-hitting decisions late in games with runners on base.

Advanced metrics like RE24 (Run Expectancy Based on Outcomes) incorporate GIDP events to quantify a player’s impact on scoring chances.

Frequently Asked Questions About GIDP in Baseball

What does GIDP stand for in baseball?

GIDP stands for “Grounded Into Double Play,” a statistic credited to a batter when their ground ball leads to two outs, typically involving a force play at second base.

Does a line drive double play count as GIDP?

No. GIDP only applies to ground balls. A line drive or fly ball resulting in two outs is not recorded as a GIDP, even if the batter is out and a runner is doubled off.

Can a batter be charged with GIDP with two outs?

No. A GIDP cannot occur with two outs because the inning ends after the second out. GIDP requires fewer than two outs at the time of the pitch.

Who holds the single-season record for most GIDP?

Johnny Bench holds the MLB single-season record with 33 GIDP in 1970. Among active players, Miguel Cabrera has recorded seasons with over 30 GIDP.

Is a high GIDP always bad for a player?

Not necessarily. High GIDP totals often correlate with frequent at-bats in scoring position. For elite hitters, the ability to drive in runs usually outweighs the cost of occasional double plays.