INTENTIONAL BASE ON BALLS Meaning and
Definition
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An intentional base on balls, commonly known as an intentional walk, is a strategic move in the sport of baseball where the team on defense purposely allows the batter to receive first base by throwing four pitches outside the strike zone. This decision is typically made when the defending team believes that pitching to a certain batter poses a greater risk than allowing them to walk to first.
The intention behind an intentional base on balls is to avoid giving the batter an opportunity to hit the ball, possibly leading to runs being scored by the opposing team. This may occur when the batter is highly skilled and has a high probability of hitting a home run or driving in runs. By walking the batter intentionally, the defending team eliminates the possibility of such an outcome.
To initiate an intentional base on balls, the defending team's pitcher throws four pitches outside the designated strike zone. The catcher positions themselves away from the plate to receive the pitches. The batter has the option to swing at any of the pitches, but since they are not within the strike zone, it is rare for them to do so.
While intentional walks can strategically benefit the defending team in specific situations, they have caused debates among baseball enthusiasts regarding their impact on the excitement and fairness of the game. In recent years, some leagues have even implemented rules to eliminate the need for pitchers to throw the four pitches, and instead, simply award the batter first base.
