What's the Difference Between a Wild Pitch and a Passed Ball?
In baseball, a wild pitch and a passed ball are both errors that allow a runner to advance. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Wild Pitch
A wild pitch is a pitch that is thrown so far outside the strike zone that the catcher cannot catch it. This can be due to a number of factors, including a pitcher's lack of control, a batter's movement, or a wet or slippery baseball.
Passed Ball
A passed ball is a pitch that is thrown within the strike zone that the catcher should have caught. This can be due to a number of factors, including the catcher's lack of skill, the pitcher's speed or movement, or a wet or slippery baseball.
Consequences
Both wild pitches and passed balls allow runners to advance. However, wild pitches are more likely to result in runners scoring, as they are often thrown farther outside the strike zone. Passed balls are more likely to result in runners advancing only one base.
Prevention
Both wild pitches and passed balls can be prevented by pitchers and catchers working together to improve their control and communication. Pitchers should focus on throwing strikes, while catchers should focus on framing pitches and blocking balls in the dirt.
FAQs
- Can a wild pitch be caught by a batter? No, a wild pitch is a ball that is thrown so far outside the strike zone that the batter cannot reach it.
- Can a passed ball be caught by a batter? Yes, a passed ball is a ball that is thrown within the strike zone that the catcher should have caught, so it is possible for a batter to catch it.
- Do wild pitches and passed balls count as hits? No, wild pitches and passed balls do not count as hits.
- Do wild pitches and passed balls count as earned runs? Wild pitches count as earned runs, while passed balls do not.
- Are wild pitches and passed balls considered errors? Yes, both wild pitches and passed balls are considered errors.
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