Does a batter get an RBI on a fielder’s choice? This is a common question among baseball enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport. Understanding the rules surrounding fielder’s choices and their impact on RBIs is crucial for grasping the intricacies of baseball scoring.
Fielder’s choice is a term used in baseball to describe a play where the batter is out, but the defensive team is unable to record an out on the next batter. This situation often arises when a fielder catches a batted ball, but the runner on base is safe. In such cases, the fielder is forced to make a choice: either to tag out the runner or to attempt to catch the next batter. If the fielder chooses to tag out the runner, the batter is credited with a fielder’s choice out, and the runner on base is safe. However, if the fielder attempts to catch the next batter, the batter is out, but the runner on base is still safe.
Now, the question arises: does a batter get an RBI on a fielder’s choice? The answer is yes, under certain circumstances. If the batter scores a run due to the fielder’s choice, he is credited with an RBI. This situation occurs when the runner on base advances to the next base after the fielder’s choice and scores before the next out is recorded. For example, if a batter hits a ground ball to the shortstop, who catches the ball but allows the runner on first base to advance to second base, the batter would be credited with a fielder’s choice out, and the runner on second base would score an unearned run. In this case, the batter would receive an RBI for the unearned run.
However, it’s important to note that not all fielder’s choices result in an RBI. If the runner on base does not score after the fielder’s choice, the batter will not receive an RBI. Additionally, if the runner on base is tagged out or caught stealing before the next out is recorded, the batter will also not receive an RBI.
In conclusion, a batter can get an RBI on a fielder’s choice if the runner on base scores after the fielder’s choice. Understanding the rules surrounding fielder’s choices and their impact on RBIs is essential for fans and players alike to appreciate the nuances of baseball scoring. So, the next time you watch a baseball game, keep an eye on those fielder’s choices and see how they contribute to the final score.
