Last updated May 4, 2:44pm ET

Total bases is a stat used in baseball betting that tracks how many bases a player earns through hits, not walks, not stolen bases, just hits.

In the betting world, it’s a popular prop market where you pick whether a player will go over or under a set number. If they hit a double and a single, that’s three total bases. Simple.

This guide covers what counts, what doesn’t, and how to approach this market if you’re starting out. If you’re brand new to sports betting, it might help to first brush up on how betting odds work.

What Are Total Bases in Baseball?

Total bases is a basic stat in baseball. It adds up how many bases a hitter earns from hits. Here’s how it breaks down:

  • Single = 1 base
  • Double = 2 bases
  • Triple = 3 bases
  • Home Run = 4 bases 

So if a player hits a single and a double in the same game, they finish with three total bases.

What Doesn’t Count Toward Total Bases?

Not every way of reaching base adds to the total bases stat. These do NOT count:

  • Walks (4 balls)
  • Getting hit by a pitch
  • Fielding errors
  • Stolen bases

Only hits count. So if a player walks three times but never gets a hit, they still finish with zero total bases.

What Does a Total Bases Bet Look Like?

You’ll usually see a line like this:
→ Aaron Judge Over/Under 1.5 Total Bases

This means you’re betting on whether he’ll record at least two total bases through hits in the game.

✅ Bet wins if:

  • He hits a home run
  • He gets two singles
  • He hits a double

❌ Bet loses if:

  • He gets one single
  • He walks four times
  • He doesn’t get a hit

How to Approach This Market

A few key things can help you choose winning picks in the total bases market:

  1. Check Pitcher Matchups

Some hitters consistently perform better against certain pitchers. This might come down to pitch type, handedness, or just familiarity.
Even a basic look at recent head-to-head stats can give you an edge.
(We’ll cover how to read these matchups in more detail soon.)

  1. Look at Player Form

Has the player been hitting well recently? A hot streak often means they’re seeing the ball clearly and making solid contact.
Look at their last 5–10 games to spot any trends.
(We’ll explain hitting streaks and how to evaluate them in a future guide.)

  1. Ballpark Matters

Not all MLB stadiums are created equal. Some are far more hitter-friendly than others — whether due to short fences, altitude, or weather conditions.
Coors Field, for example, is well known for producing more extra-base hits.
(We’re working on a guide to help identify these stadiums and why they matter.)

  1. Batting Order

A player’s position in the batting lineup affects how many opportunities they’ll have to rack up bases.
Those hitting near the top (especially 1st–3rd) typically get more plate appearances.
(In an upcoming post, we’ll explain how batting order impacts betting decisions.)

For a wider look at betting strategies across MLB markets, check out our complete baseball betting strategy guide.

What is a walk in baseball?

A walk is when a batter gets four balls and reaches first base without hitting the ball. Walks do not count as total bases in betting, only hits do

What counts toward total bases?

Only hits: singles (1 base), doubles (2), triples (3), and home runs (4). Walks, steals, errors, or hit-by-pitch events don’t count.

Do stadiums affect total bases props?

Yes. Some ballparks are better for hitters, which means more extra-base hits. This is something sharp bettors always consider.

How do I check if a player is in form?

Look at the player’s last 5-10 games. If they get hits regularly, they’re more likely to exceed their total baseline.

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