Overview
A hit is recorded when the batter puts the ball in play and reaches first base or beyond without the benefit of a fielding error. Hits are classified into four types: singles, doubles, triples, and home runs, forming the numerator of batting average. NPB's all-time hit record is Isao Harimoto's 3,085, while the single-season record is Matt Murton's 214 in 2010. A batting average above .300 is considered elite. Infield hits, where slower-hit balls allow fast runners to reach base, demonstrate how hit quality varies significantly by batter type.