How many different ways can a batter get to first base?
Hey, let’s answer this for the zillionth time… (1) Base hit (2) Base on balls (3) Hit by pitch (4) Error (5) Fielder’s choice (6) Interference (7) Obstruction (8) Passed ball (on uncaught third strike) (9) Wild pitch (on uncaught third strike) Notes: Obstruction and interference are not the same; “dropped” third strike is not a complete answer because the scoring will be either “wild pitch” or “passed ball,” not to mention that sometimes the catcher doesn’t even get his glove on the third strike; a batted ball that strikes a runner or umpire and entitles the batter-runner to first is a base hit; the batter can NEVER ever be awarded first base on a balk. Some other misconceptions that keep popping up: (1) No, there is no such thing as a “catcher’s balk.” Only the pitcher can balk. See 2.00. (2) No, the batter is not awarded first on a balk when there were three balls in the count before the balk. When all runners, including the batter-runner, advance at least one base on a play in whi
