Hit by pitch

In baseball, being hit by a pitch refers to the batter being hit in some part of the body by a pitch from the pitcher. In baseball statistics, hit by pitch (HBP) records the number of times a batter is awarded first base by virtue of being hit by a pitched ball. In pitching statistics HB records the number of times a batter opposing each pitcher is awarded first base due to being hit by a pitch. For this latter usage, the terms hit batsman or hit batter are used.

Crackdown

In the 2004 season, in an attempt to cut down on headhunting in the American League, umpires began cracking down on players who intentionally threw at batters and ejecting pitchers who throw directly at a batter's body more frequently. Baltimore Orioles pitcher Jorge Julio was suspended in September under this change in policy after throwing a pitch at Minnesota Twins infielder Augie Ojeda's head on September 7.

Related Topics:
Baltimore Orioles - Jorge Julio - Minnesota Twins - Augie Ojeda - September 7

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