Austin Slater: Baseball Savant | Fangraphs | Baseball Reference
Austin Slater, an outfielder for the San Francisco Giants, has developed into one of Major League Baseball’s most intriguing players due to his versatility, plate discipline, and analytical performance. Using tools like Baseball Savant, Fangraphs, and Baseball Reference, fans and analysts alike can break down his career arc, underlying metrics, and potential future impact.
In this article, we’ll deep dive into Austin Slater’s biographical background, statistical performance, and how different analytical platforms provide a complete picture of his value on the field.
Who Is Austin Slater?
Full Name: Austin Thomas Slater
Date of Birth: December 13, 1992
Place of Birth: Jacksonville, Florida
Height: 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
Weight: 204 lbs (92 kg)
Position: Outfielder
Bats/Throws: Right/Right
MLB Debut: June 2, 2017, for the San Francisco Giants
Austin Slater was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the 8th round of the 2014 MLB Draft out of Stanford University. Known for his intelligence and athleticism, he quickly worked his way through the minor league system.
Career Overview and Traditional Stats (Baseball Reference)
According to Baseball Reference, Slater’s traditional statistics reflect a consistent and valuable contributor, especially in platoon matchups.
Career Stats Snapshot (as of 2025 season):
- Games Played: 500+
- Batting Average: .253
- On-Base Percentage (OBP): .338
- Slugging Percentage (SLG): .402
- OPS (On-base + Slugging): .740
- Home Runs: 40+
- RBIs: 180+
- Stolen Bases: 40+
Slater’s role has often been that of a platoon outfielder, especially thriving against left-handed pitching, which makes his value significant in a depth-oriented lineup.
Deep Dive into Advanced Metrics (Fangraphs)
Fangraphs provides a more nuanced view of Slater’s game, particularly through metrics like wRC+, BABIP, K%, and BB%.
Key Advanced Metrics:
- wRC+ (Weighted Runs Created Plus):
Slater typically posts a wRC+ between 110-125 against lefties, showing above-average offensive production. His overall wRC+ hovers around 100, which is average MLB production. - BB% (Walk Rate):
Around 9.5%, indicating a patient hitter who works counts. - K% (Strikeout Rate):
Usually between 23% and 26%, a bit above league average but acceptable for his power and role. - BABIP (Batting Average on Balls in Play):
Generally fluctuates between .300–.330, suggesting his contact is solid, not overly reliant on luck. - Defensive Metrics:
Slater is a solid corner outfielder with the versatility to cover center field when needed. His Outs Above Average (OAA) and Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) are typically average, though his arm strength scores above average on Fangraphs’ scouting grades.
Slater’s Value (WAR):
Slater’s WAR (Wins Above Replacement) is often between 1.0 to 2.0 per season, which is valuable for a part-time player. This makes him a critical bench piece or platoon starter.
Baseball Savant: The Power of Statcast
Baseball Savant is MLB’s Statcast data visualization platform that highlights player tools and tendencies.
Statcast Breakdown:
1. Exit Velocity:
- Average Exit Velo: 88–90 mph
Slater isn’t a pure power hitter but makes solid contact. His hard-hit percentage usually lands in the 50th–60th percentile.
2. Barrel Rate:
- Around 6-8%, indicating occasional power. He may not be a slugger, but he punishes mistakes.
3. Sprint Speed:
- Top 70th–75th percentile, making him a threat on the base paths and a strong defender.
4. Outs Above Average (OAA):
- Ranges from average to slightly above average, showing solid reads and efficient routes.
5. Chase Rate:
- Better than average, demonstrating his excellent plate discipline and ability to lay off bad pitches.
Baseball Savant data shows that Slater is disciplined, athletic, and versatile, making him a favorite of analytics departments and savvy managers.
2025 Season Performance and Role with Giants
In the 2025 MLB season, Slater has once again carved out a crucial role with the Giants. Amid injuries and roster shifts, he’s been a flexible piece used in matchups against left-handed pitchers and has also served as a late-game pinch-hitter or defensive replacement.
Notable Contributions in 2025:
- Batting .267 with a .360 OBP through July.
- wRC+ of 120 against LHPs, showing his ongoing excellence in platoon situations.
- A couple of walk-off hits, adding to his clutch reputation.
- Helping the Giants stay competitive in a tough NL West division.
Austin Slater’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Platoon Hitter Against LHPs – Career OPS over .800 vs lefties.
- Plate Discipline – Above-average walk rate, smart swing decisions.
- Speed and Versatility – Can play all three outfield positions and steal bases.
- Baseball IQ – Stanford background and in-game awareness boost his overall value.
- Low Chase Rate – Refuses to swing at pitches out of the zone.
Weaknesses:
- Struggles Against RHPs – OPS drops significantly versus right-handers.
- Injury Concerns – Slater has dealt with back and hamstring injuries in past seasons.
- Power Ceiling – Slater doesn’t have elite slugging numbers.
- Part-time Role – His contributions are often limited to specific matchups.
Comparison to Similar MLB Players
While Slater doesn’t possess the star power of outfielders like Ronald Acuña Jr. or Mookie Betts, his profile is comparable to other productive platoon/utility outfielders.
| Player | Team | Similar Role |
|---|---|---|
| Jake Cave | Rockies | LHH platoon player |
| Tyler Naquin | Free Agent | LHH with some power |
| Kevin Pillar | White Sox | Veteran OF with defensive value |
| Robbie Grossman | Rangers | Veteran platoon bat vs LHP |
Slater stands out among these names due to his elite plate discipline and consistently solid OBP.
Fan Value and Intangibles
Austin Slater may not fill highlight reels every night, but Giants fans appreciate his steady contributions. He’s regarded as a professional hitter, a team-first guy, and someone who steps up in key moments.
His personality and background—Stanford education, soft-spoken demeanor, leadership in the clubhouse—make him a fan favorite.
Future Outlook: What’s Next for Austin Slater?
At 32 years old in 2025, Slater remains an important role player. While not a centerpiece, players like him can often extend their careers into their mid-to-late 30s thanks to their adaptability and situational value.
Possible Future Paths:
- Veteran Presence on Giants – Continue his role as a part-time outfielder.
- Designated Hitter Against Lefties – In DH-friendly lineups.
- Coaching or Front Office Career – Given his intellect and experience, he’s a future bench coach or scout in the making.
Final Thoughts: Analytics Shine Light on Slater’s Value
Without advanced stats from Baseball Savant, Fangraphs, and Baseball Reference, the average fan might miss what makes Austin Slater valuable. His ability to control the strike zone, produce in high-leverage situations, and contribute defensively makes him an unsung hero of the San Francisco Giants.
He may not grab headlines, but he grabs victories—and in a game of inches, that’s the kind of player teams quietly build around.
Key Takeaways
- Austin Slater is an analytics darling due to his plate discipline, platoon splits, and versatile defense.
- His Baseball Savant metrics show a well-rounded profile with good sprint speed, contact quality, and low chase rates.
- On Fangraphs, his wRC+ and WAR confirm his value, especially in platoon roles.
- Baseball Reference offers a traditional view of a consistent, reliable outfielder.
- Slater’s impact isn’t flashy—but it’s effective.
FAQs About Austin Slater
Q: Is Austin Slater a starting outfielder?
A: He primarily plays in a platoon role, especially against left-handed pitchers.
Q: What makes Slater valuable?
A: His discipline, contact skills, versatility, and ability to perform in key matchups make him invaluable to a modern MLB team.
Q: How fast is Austin Slater?
A: He ranks in the top 30% of MLB players for sprint speed, making him an above-average base runner.
Q: What are his career highs?
A: His best statistical seasons include an OPS of .821 in 2020 and wRC+ of 132 in that shortened campaign.
Q: Will he stay with the Giants?
A: As of 2025, he remains with the Giants and is a trusted part of their outfield rotation.
