Is a fielder’s choice a hit? This question often arises in baseball discussions, especially among newcomers to the sport. Understanding the concept of a fielder’s choice is crucial for grasping the intricacies of baseball gameplay. In this article, we will delve into the definition, rules, and significance of a fielder’s choice, helping you better understand its role in the game.
Fielder’s choice is a term used in baseball to describe a play where a fielder, upon catching a batted ball, has the option to tag out a runner or to throw the ball to a base to force out a runner. If the fielder chooses to tag out a runner, the batter is credited with a hit, as the play does not involve an out. Conversely, if the fielder elects to throw the ball to a base, the batter is not credited with a hit, and the play results in an out.
The confusion surrounding a fielder’s choice arises from the fact that it can be interpreted as both a hit and an out, depending on the fielder’s decision. However, the official rulebook of baseball, the Official Baseball Rules, clearly states that a fielder’s choice is not a hit. Instead, it is considered a “play” or “action” that can result in either a hit or an out, depending on the fielder’s judgment.
In a fielder’s choice, the batter is not credited with a hit if the fielder successfully executes the throw to a base, forcing out a runner. This means that the batter’s on-base percentage remains unaffected, and the count continues as if the batter had not hit the ball. On the other hand, if the fielder fails to make the throw, and the runner is safe, the batter is credited with a hit, and the play is considered an out for the fielder.
Understanding the concept of a fielder’s choice is essential for players, coaches, and fans alike. It adds an extra layer of strategy to the game, as fielders must weigh the potential outcomes of their decisions. A fielder may choose to tag out a runner if the play is close and the risk of a passed ball is high, or they may opt to throw the ball to a base if the runner is far ahead and the risk of a stolen base is low.
In conclusion, a fielder’s choice is not a hit, but rather a play that can result in either a hit or an out, depending on the fielder’s decision. Familiarizing oneself with this concept is crucial for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge of baseball and appreciate the game’s intricate gameplay.
