Count (baseball)

In baseball, the count refers to the number of balls and strikes a batsman has in his current at bat. It is usually announced as a pair of numbers, for instance "3-0", with the first number being the number of balls and the second being the number of strikes. A 3-2 count—that is, one with the maximum number of balls and strikes in a given at bat—is referred to as a full count. A count of 1-1 or 2-2 is called even.

Related Topics:
Baseball - Balls - Strikes - At bat

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An important part of baseball statistics is measuring which counts are most likely to produce favorable outcomes for the pitcher or the hitter. Counts of 3-1 and 2-0 are considered hitters counts, because the pitcher is more likely to throw a ball in the strike zone, especially a fastball. Somewhat surprisingly, in general, a 3-0 count tends to yield fewer hittable pitches, depending on the situation. Counts with more strikes than balls always favor the pitcher. Arguing balls and strikes in a Major League game leads to a warning from the umpire, and an ejection if the team member does not cease arguing.

Related Topics:
Baseball statistics - Strike zone - Fastball - Major League

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