10.00 The Official Scorer.

10.01 (a) The league president shall appoint an official scorer for each
league championship game. The official scorer shall observe the game from a
position in the press box. The scorer shall have sole authority to make all
decisions involving judgment, such as whether a batter's advance to first
base is the result of a hit or an error. He shall communicate such decisions to
the press box and broadcasting booths by hand signals or over the press
box loud speaker system, and shall advise the public address announcer of
such decisions if requested. The Official Scorer must make all decisions
concerning judgment calls within twenty four (24) hours after a game has
been officially concluded. No judgment decision shall be changed thereafter
except, upon immediate application to the League President, the scorer may
request a change, citing the reasons for such. In all cases, the official scorer
is not permitted to make a scoring decision which is in conflict with the
scoring rules. After each game, including forfeited and called games, the
scorer shall prepare a report, on a form prescribed by the league president,
listing the date of the game, where it was played, the names of the competing
clubs and the umpires, the full score of the game, and all records of
individual players compiled according to the system specified in these
Official Scoring Rules. He shall forward this report to the league office within
thirty six hours after the game ends. He shall forward the report of any
suspended game within thirty six hours after the game has been completed,
or after it becomes an official game because it cannot be completed, as
provided by the Official Playing Rules.
(b) (1) To achieve uniformity in keeping the records of championship
games, the scorer shall conform strictly to the Official Scoring Rules. The
scorer shall have authority to rule on any point not specifically covered in
these rules.
(2) If the teams change sides before three men are put out, the
scorer shall immediately inform the umpire of the mistake.
(3) If the game is protested or suspended, the scorer shall make a
note of the exact situation at the time of the protest or suspension, including
the score, the number of outs, the position of any runners, and the ball and
strike count on the batter.
NOTE: It is important that a suspended game resume with exactly the same
situation as existed at the time of suspension. If a protested game is ordered
replayed from the point of protest, it must be resumed with exactly the
situation that existed just before the protested play.
(4) The scorer shall not make any decision conflicting with the
Official Playing Rules, or with an umpire's decision.
(5) The scorer shall not call the attention of the umpire or of any
member of either team to the fact that a player is batting out of turn.
(c) (1) The scorer is an official representative of the league, and is
entitled to the respect and dignity of his office, and shall be accorded full
protection by the league president. The scorer shall report to the president
any indignity expressed by any manager, player, club employee or club
officer in the course of, or as the result of, the discharge of his duties.

10.02 The official score report prescribed by the league president shall
make provisions for entering the information listed below, in a form
convenient for the compilation of permanent statistical records:
(a) The following records for each batter and runner:
(1) Number of times he batted, except that no time at bat shall be
charged against a player when
(i) He hits a sacrifice bunt or sacrifice fly
(ii) He is awarded first base on four called balls
(iii) He is hit by a pitched ball
(iv) He is awarded first base because of interference or
obstruction.
(2) Number of runs scored
(3) Number of safe hits
(4) Number of runs batted in
(5) Two base hits
(6) Three base hits
(7) Home runs
(8) Total bases on safe hits
(9) Stolen bases
(10) Sacrifice bunts
(11) Sacrifice flies
(12) Total number of bases on balls
(13) Separate listing of any intentional bases on balls
(14) Number of times hit by a pitched ball
(15) Number of times awarded first base for interference or
obstruction.
(16) Strikeouts
(b) The following records for each fielder:
(1) Number of putouts
(2) Number of assists
(3) Number of errors
(4) Number of double plays participated in
(5) Number of triple plays participated in
(c) The following records for each pitcher:
(1) Number of innings pitched.
NOTE: In computing innings pitched, count each putout as one third of an
inning. If a starting pitcher is replaced with one out in the sixth inning, credit
that pitcher with 5 1/3 innings. If a starting pitcher is replaced with none out
in the sixth inning, credit that pitcher with 5 innings, and make the notation
that he faced ___ batters in the sixth. If a relief pitcher retires two batters
and is replaced, credit that pitcher with 2/3 inning pitched.
(2) Total number of batters faced
(3) Number of batters officially at bat against pitcher computed
according to 10.02 (a) (1).
(4) Number of hits allowed
(5) Number of runs allowed
(6) Number of earned runs allowed
(7) Number of home runs allowed
(8) Number of sacrifice hits allowed
(9) Number of sacrifice flies allowed
(10) Total number of bases on balls allowed
(11) Separate listing of any intentional bases on balls allowed
(12) Number of batters hit by pitched balls
(13) Number of strikeouts
(14) Number of wild pitches
(15) Number of balks
(d) The following additional data:
(1) Name of the winning pitcher
(2) Name of the losing pitcher
(3) Names of the starting pitcher and the finishing pitcher for each
team.
(4) Name of pitcher credited with save.
(e) Number of passed balls allowed by each catcher.
(f) Name of players participating in double plays and triple plays.
EXAMPLE: Double Plays_Jones, Roberts and Smith (2). Triple Play_Jones
and Smith.
(g) Number of runners left on base by each team. This total shall include
all runners who get on base by any means and who do not score and are not
put out. Include in this total a batter runner whose batted ball results in
another runner being retired for the third out.
(h) Names of batters who hit home runs with bases full.
(i) Names of batters who ground into force double plays and reverse
force double plays.
(j) Names of runners caught stealing.
(k) Number of outs when winning run scored, if game is won in last half
inning.
(l) The score by innings for each team.
(m) Names of umpires, listed in this order
(1) plate umpire,
(2) first base umpire,
(3) second base umpire,
(4) third base umpire.
(n) Time required to play the game, with delays for weather or light
failure deducted.

10.03 (a) In compiling the official score report, the official scorer shall list
each player's name and his fielding position or positions in the order in which
the player batted, or would have batted if the game ends before he gets to
bat.
NOTE: When a player does not exchange positions with another fielder but
is merely placed in a different spot for a particular batter, do not list this as a
new position.
EXAMPLES: (1) Second baseman goes to the outfield to form a four man
outfield.
(2) Third baseman moves to a position between shortstop and
second baseman.
(b) Any player who enters the game as a substitute batter or substitute
runner, whether or not he continues in the game thereafter, shall be identified
in the batting order by a special symbol which shall refer to a separate
record of substitute batters and runners. Lower case letters are
recommended as symbols for substitute batters, and numerals as symbols for
substitute runners. The record of substitute batters shall describe what the
substitute batter did.
EXAMPLES_"a Singled for ___ in third inning; b Flied out for ___ in sixth
inning; c Forced ___ for ___ in seventh inning; d Grounded out for ___ in
ninth inning; 1 Ran for ___ in ninth inning. The record of substitute batters
and runners shall include the name of any such substitute whose name is
announced, but who is removed for a second substitute before he actually
gets into the game. Such substitution shall be recorded as "e Announced as
substitute for ___ in seventh inning." Any such second substitute shall be
recorded as batting or running for the first announced substitute.

HOW TO PROVE A BOX SCORE
(c) A box score is in balance (or proved) when the total of the team's
times at bat, bases on balls received, hit batters, sacrifice bunts, sacrifice flies
and batters awarded first base because of interference or obstruction equals
the total of that team's runs, players left on base and the opposing team's
putouts.

WHEN PLAYER BATS OUT OF TURN
(d) When a player bats out of turn, and is put out, and the proper batter
is called out before the ball is pitched to the next batter, charge the proper
batter with a time at bat and score the putout and any assists the same as if
the correct batting order had been followed. If an improper batter becomes
a runner and the proper batter is called out for having missed his turn at bat,
charge the proper batter with a time at bat, credit the putout to the catcher,
and ignore everything entering into the improper batter's safe arrival on base.
If more than one batter bats out of turn in succession score all plays just as
they occur, skipping the turn at bat of the player or players who first missed
batting in the proper order.

CALLED AND FORFEITED GAMES
(e) (1) If a regulation game is called, include the record of all individual
and team actions up to the moment the game ends, as defined in Rules 4.10
and 4.11. If it is a tie game, do not enter a winning or losing pitcher.
(2) If a regulation game is forfeited, include the record of all
individual and team actions up to the time of forfeit. If the winning team by
forfeit is ahead at the time of forfeit, enter as winning and losing pitchers the
players who would have qualified if the game had been called at the time of
forfeit. If the winning team by forfeit is behind or if the score is tied at the
time of forfeit, do not enter a winning or losing pitcher. If a game is forfeited
before it becomes a regulation game, include no records. Report only the
fact of the forfeit.

RUNS BATTED IN

10.04 (a) Credit the batter with a run batted in for every run which reaches
home base because of the batter's safe hit, sacrifice bunt, sacrifice fly, infield
out or fielder's choice; or which is forced over the plate by reason of the
batter becoming a runner with the bases full (on a base on balls, or an award
of first base for being touched by a pitched ball, or for interference or
obstruction).
(1) Credit a run batted in for the run scored by the batter who hits a
home run. Credit a run batted in for each runner who is on base when the
home run is hit and who scores ahead of the batter who hits the home run.
(2) Credit a run batted in for the run scored when, before two are
out, an error is made on a play on which a runner from third base ordinarily
would score.
(b) Do not credit a run batted in when the batter grounds into a force
double play or a reverse force double play.
(c) Do not credit a run batted in when a fielder is charged with an error
because he muffs a throw at first base which would have completed a force
double play.
(d) Scorer's judgment must determine whether a run batted in shall be
credited for a run which scores when a fielder holds the ball, or throws to a
wrong base. Ordinarily, if the runner keeps going, credit a run batted in; if
the runner stops and takes off again when he notices the misplay, credit the
run as scored on a fielder's choice.

BASE HITS

10.05 A base hit shall be scored in the following cases:
(a) When a batter reaches first base (or any succeeding base) safely on
a fair ball which settles on the ground or touches a fence before being
touched by a fielder, or which clears a fence;
(b) When a batter reaches first base safely on a fair ball hit with such
force, or so slowly, that any fielder attempting to make a play with it has no
opportunity to do so;
NOTE: A hit shall be scored if the fielder attempting to handle the ball
cannot make a play, even if such fielder deflects the ball from or cuts off
another fielder who could have put out a runner.
(c) When a batter reaches first base safely on a fair ball which takes an
unnatural bounce so that a fielder cannot handle it with ordinary effort, or
which touches the pitcher's plate or any base, (including home plate), before
being touched by a fielder and bounces so that a fielder cannot handle it with
ordinary effort;
(d) When a batter reaches first base safely on a fair ball which has not
been touched by a fielder and which is in fair territory when it reaches the
outfield unless in the scorer's judgment it could have been handled with
ordinary effort;
(e) When a fair ball which has not been touched by a fielder touches a
runner or an umpire. EXCEPTION: Do not score a hit when a runner is
called out for having been touched by an Infield Fly;
(f) When a fielder unsuccessfully attempts to put out a preceding runner,
and in the scorer's judgment the batter runner would not have been put out
at first base by ordinary effort.
NOTE: In applying the above rules, always give the batter the benefit of the
doubt. A safe course to follow is to score a hit when exceptionally good
fielding of a ball fails to result in a putout.

10.06 A base hit shall not be scored in the following cases:
(a) When a runner is forced out by a batted ball, or would have been
forced out except for a fielding error;
(b) When the batter apparently hits safely and a runner who is forced to
advance by reason of the batter becoming a runner fails to touch the first
base to which he is advancing and is called out on appeal. Charge the batter
with a time at bat but no hit;
(c) When the pitcher, the catcher or any infielder handles a batted ball
and puts out a preceding runner who is attempting to advance one base or to
return to his original base, or would have put out such runner with ordinary
effort except for a fielding error. Charge the batter with a time at bat but no
hit;
(d) When a fielder fails in an attempt to put out a preceding runner, and
in the scorer's judgment the batter runner could have been put out at first
base.
NOTE: This shall not apply if the fielder merely looks toward or feints
toward another base before attempting to make the putout at first base;
(e) When a runner is called out for interference with a fielder attempting
to field a batted ball, unless in the scorer's judgment the batter runner would
have been safe had the interference not occurred.

DETERMINING VALUE OF BASE HITS

10.07 Whether a safe hit shall be scored as one base hit, two base hit, three
base hit or home run when no error or putout results shall be determined as
follows:
(a) Subject to the provisions of 10.07 (b) and (c), it is a one base hit if
the batter stops at first base; it is a two base hit if the batter stops at second
base; it a three base hit if the batter stops at third base; it is a home run if the
batter touches all bases and scores.
(b) When, with one or more runners on base, the batter advances more
than one base on a safe hit and the defensive team makes an attempt to put
out a preceding runner, the scorer shall determine whether the batter made a
legitimate two base hit or three base hit, or whether he advanced beyond
first base on the fielder's choice.
NOTE: Do not credit the batter with a three base hit when a preceding
runner is put out at the plate, or would have been out but for an error. Do
not credit the batter with a two base hit when a preceding runner trying to
advance from first base is put out at third base, or would have been out but
for an error. However, with the exception of the above, do not determine
the value of base hits by the number of bases advanced by a preceding
runner. A batter may deserve a two base hit even though a preceding runner
advances one or no bases; he may deserve only a one base hit even though
he reaches second base and a preceding runner advances two bases.
EXAMPLES: (1) Runner on first, batter hits to right fielder, who throws to
third base in unsuccessful attempt to put out runner. Batter takes second
base. Credit batter with one base hit.
(2) Runner on second. Batter hits fair fly ball. Runner holds up
to determine if ball is caught, and advances only to third base, while batter
takes second. Credit batter with two base hit.
(3) Runner on third. Batter hits high fair fly. Runner takes lead,
then runs back to tag up, thinking ball will be caught. Ball falls safe, but
runner cannot score, although batter has reached second. Credit batter with
two base hit.
(c) When the batter attempts to make a two base hit or a three base hit
by sliding, he must hold the last base to which he advances. If he overslides
and is tagged out before getting back to the base safely, he shall be credited
with only as many bases as he attained safely. If he overslides second base
and is tagged out, he shall be credited with a one base hit; if he overslides
third base and is tagged out, he shall be credited with a two base hit.
NOTE: If the batter overruns second or third base and is tagged out trying
to return, he shall be credited with the last base he touched. If he runs past
second base after reaching that base on his feet, attempts to return and is
tagged out, he shall be credited with a two base hit. If he runs past third base
after reaching that base on his feet, attempts to return and is tagged out, he
shall be credited with a three base hit.
(d) When the batter, after making a safe hit, is called out for having
failed to touch a base, the last base he reached safely shall determine if he
shall be credited with a one base hit, a two base hit or a three base hit. If he
is called out after missing home base, he shall be credited with a three base
hit. If he is called out for missing third base, he shall be credited with a two
base hit. If he is called out for missing second base, he shall be credited with
a one base hit. If he is called out for missing first base, he shall be charged
with a time at bat, but no hit.
(e) When the batter runner is awarded two bases, three bases or a
home run under the provisions of Playing Rules 7.05 or 7.06 (a), he shall be
credited with a two base hit, a three base hit or a home run, as the case may
be.

GAME ENDING HITS
(f) Subject to the provisions of 10.07 (g), when the batter ends a game
with a safe hit which drives in as many runs as are necessary to put his team
in the lead, he shall be credited with only as many bases on his hit as are
advanced by the runner who scores the winning run, and then only if the
batter runs out his hit for as many bases as are advanced by the runner who
scores the winning run.
NOTE: Apply this rule even when the batter is theoretically entitled to more
bases because of being awarded an "automatic" extra base hit under various
provisions of Playing Rules 6.09 and 7.05.
(g) When the batter ends a game with a home run hit out of the playing
field, he and any runners on base are entitled to score.

STOLEN BASES

10.08 A stolen base shall be credited to a runner whenever he advances one
base unaided by a hit, a putout, an error, a force out, a fielder's choice, a
passed ball, a wild pitch or a balk, subject to the following:
(a) When a runner starts for the next base before the pitcher delivers the
ball and the pitch results in what ordinarily is scored a wild pitch or passed
ball, credit the runner with a stolen base and do not charge the misplay.
EXCEPTION: If, as a result of the misplay, the stealing runner advances an
extra base, or another runner also advances, score the wild pitch or passed
ball as well as the stolen base.
(b) When a runner is attempting to steal, and the catcher, after receiving
the pitch, makes a wild throw trying to prevent the stolen base, credit a
stolen base. Do not charge an error unless the wild throw permits the
stealing runner to advance one or more extra bases, or permits another
runner to advance, in which case credit the stolen base and charge one error
to the catcher.
(c) When a runner, attempting to steal, or after being picked off base,
evades being put out in a run down play and advances to the next base
without the aid of an error, credit the runner with a stolen base. If another
runner also advances on the play, credit both runners with stolen bases. If a
runner advances while another runner, attempting to steal, evades being put
out in a run down play and returns safely, without the aid of an error, to the
base he originally occupied, credit a stolen base to the runner who advances.

(d) When a double or triple steal is attempted and one runner is thrown
out before reaching and holding the base he is attempting to steal, no other
runner shall be credited with a stolen base.
(e) When a runner is tagged out after oversliding a base, while
attempting either to return to that base or to advance to the next base, he
shall not be credited with a stolen base.
(f) When in the scorer's judgment a runner attempting to steal is safe
because of a muffed throw, do not credit a stolen base. Credit an assist to
the fielder who made the throw; charge an error to the fielder who muffed
the throw, and charge the runner with "caught stealing."
(g) No stolen base shall be scored when a runner advances solely
because of the defensive team's indifference to his advance. Score as a
fielder's choice.

CAUGHT STEALING
(h) A runner shall be charged as "Caught Stealing" if he is put out, or
would have been put out by errorless play when he
(1) Tries to steal.
(2) Is picked off a base and tries to advance (any move toward the
next base shall be considered an attempt to advance).
(3) Overslides while stealing.
NOTE: In those instances where a pitched ball eludes the catcher and the
runner is put out trying to advance, no caught stealing shall be charged. No
caught stealing should be charged when a runner is awarded a base due to
obstruction.

SACRIFICES

10.09 (a) Score a sacrifice bunt when, before two are out, the batter
advances one or more runners with a bunt and is put out at first base, or
would have been put out except for a fielding error.
(b) Score a sacrifice bunt when, before two are out, the fielders handle
a bunted ball without error in an unsuccessful attempt to put out a preceding
runner advancing one base. EXCEPTION: When an attempt to turn a bunt
into a putout of a preceding runner fails, and in the scorer's judgment perfect
play would not have put out the batter at first base, the batter shall be
credited with a one base hit and not a sacrifice.
(c) Do not score a sacrifice bunt when any runner is put out attempting
to advance one base on a bunt. Charge the batter with a time at bat.
(d) Do not score a sacrifice bunt when, in the judgment of the scorer,
the batter is bunting primarily for a base hit and not for the purpose of
advancing a runner or runners. Charge the batter with a time at bat.
NOTE: In applying the above rule, always give the batter the benefit of the
doubt.
(e) Score a sacrifice fly when, before two are out, the batter hits a fly
ball or a line drive handled by an outfielder or an infielder running in the
outfield which
(1) is caught, and a runner scores after the catch, or
(2) is dropped, and a runner scores, if in the scorer's judgment the
runner could have scored after the catch had the fly been caught.
NOTE: Score a sacrifice fly in accordance with 10.09 (e) (2) even though
another runner is forced out by reason of the batter becoming a runner.

PUTOUTS

10.10 A putout shall be credited to each fielder who (1) catches a fly ball or
a line drive, whether fair or foul; (2) catches a thrown ball which puts out a
batter or runner, or (3) tags a runner when the runner is off the base to which
he legally is entitled.
(a) Automatic putouts shall be credited to the catcher as follows:
(1) When the batter is called out for an illegally batted ball;
(2) When the batter is called out for bunting foul for his third strike;
(Note exception in 10.17 (a) (4)).
(3) When the batter is called out for being touched by his own
batted ball;
(4) When the batter is called out for interfering with the catcher.
(5) When the batter is called out for failing to bat in his proper turn;
(See 10.03 (d)).
(6) When the batter is called out for refusing to touch first base after
receiving a base on balls;
(7) When a runner is called out for refusing to advance from third
base to home with the winning run.
(b) Other automatic putouts shall be credited as follows (Credit no
assists on these plays except as specified):
(1) When the batter is called out on an Infield Fly which is not
caught, credit the putout to the fielder who the scorer believes could have
made the catch;
(2) When a runner is called out for being touched by a fair ball
(including an Infield Fly), credit the putout to the fielder nearest the ball;
(3) When a runner is called out for running out of line to avoid being
tagged, credit the putout to the fielder whom the runner avoided;
(4) When a runner is called out for passing another runner, credit
the putout to the fielder nearest the point of passing;
(5) When a runner is called out for running the bases in reverse
order, credit the putout to the fielder covering the base he left in starting his
reverse run;
(6) When a runner is called out for having interfered with a fielder,
credit the putout to the fielder with whom the runner interfered, unless the
fielder was in the act of throwing the ball when the interference occurred, in
which case credit the putout to the fielder for whom the throw was intended,
and credit an assist to the fielder whose throw was interfered with;
(7) When the batter runner is called out because of interference by
a preceding runner, as provided in Playing Rule 6.05 (m), credit the putout
to the first baseman. If the fielder interfered with was in the act of throwing
the ball, credit him with an assist, but credit only one assist on any one play
under the provisions of 10.10 (b) (6) and (7).

ASSISTS

10.11 An assist shall be credited to each fielder who throws or deflects a
batted or thrown ball in such a way that a putout results, or would have
resulted except for a subsequent error by any fielder. Only one assist and no
more shall be credited to each fielder who throws or deflects the ball in a run
down play which results in a putout, or would have resulted in a putout,
except for a subsequent error.
NOTE: Mere ineffective contact with the ball shall not be considered an
assist. "Deflect" shall mean to slow down or change the direction of the ball
and thereby effectively assist in putting out a batter or runner.
(a) Credit an assist to each fielder who throws or deflects the ball during
a play which results in a runner being called out for interference, or for
running out of line.
(b) Do not credit an assist to the pitcher on a strikeout. EXCEPTION:
Credit an assist if the pitcher fields an uncaught third strike and makes a
throw which results in a putout.
(c) Do not credit an assist to the pitcher when, as the result of a legal
pitch received by the catcher, a runner is put out, as when the catcher picks
a runner off base, throws out a runner trying to steal, or tags a runner trying
to score.
(d) Do not credit an assist to a fielder whose wild throw permits a
runner to advance, even though the runner subsequently is put out as a result
of continuous play. A play which follows a misplay (whether or not it is an
error) is a new play, and the fielder making any misplay shall not be credited
with an assist unless he takes part in the new play.

DOUBLE PLAYS_TRIPLE PLAYS

10.12 Credit participation in the double play or triple play to each fielder
who earns a putout or an assist when two or three players are put out
between the time a pitch is delivered and the time the ball next becomes
dead or is next in possession of the pitcher in pitching position, unless an
error or misplay intervenes between putouts.
NOTE: Credit the double play or triple play also if an appeal play after the
ball is in possession of the pitcher results in an additional putout.

ERRORS

10.13 An error shall be charged for each misplay (fumble, muff or wild
throw) which prolongs the time at bat of a batter or which prolongs the life
of a runner, or which permits a runner to advance one or more bases.
NOTE (1) Slow handling of the ball which does not involve mechanical
misplay shall not be construed as an error.
NOTE (2) It is not necessary that the fielder touch the ball to be charged
with an error. If a ground ball goes through a fielder's legs or a pop fly falls
untouched and in the scorer's judgment the fielder could have handled the
ball with ordinary effort, an error shall be charged.
NOTE (3) Mental mistakes or misjudgments are not to be scored as errors
unless specifically covered in the rules.
(a) An error shall be charged against any fielder when he muffs a foul
fly, to prolong the time at bat of a batter whether the batter subsequently
reaches first base or is put out.
(b) An error shall be charged against any fielder when he catches a
thrown ball or a ground ball in time to put out the batter runner and fails to
tag first base or the batter runner.
(c) An error shall be charged against any fielder when he catches a
thrown ball or a ground ball in time to put out any runner on a force play and
fails to tag the base or the runner.
(d) (1) An error shall be charged against any fielder whose wild throw
permits a runner to reach a base safely, when in the scorer's judgment a
good throw would have put out the runner. EXCEPTION: No error shall be
charged under this section if the wild throw is made attempting to prevent a
stolen base.
(2) An error shall be charged against any fielder whose wild throw
in attempting to prevent a runner's advance permits that runner or any other
runner to advance one or more bases beyond the base he would have
reached had the throw not been wild.
(3) An error shall be charged against any fielder whose throw takes
an unnatural bounce, or touches a base or the pitcher's plate, or touches a
runner, a fielder or an umpire, thereby permitting any runner to advance.
NOTE: Apply this rule even when it appears to be an injustice to a fielder
whose throw was accurate. Every base advanced by a runner must be
accounted for.
(4) Charge only one error on any wild throw, regardless of the
number of bases advanced by one or more runners.
(e) An error shall be charged against any fielder whose failure to stop,
or try to stop, an accurately thrown ball permits a runner to advance,
providing there was occasion for the throw. If such throw be made to
second base, the scorer shall determine whether it was the duty of the
second baseman or the shortstop to stop the ball, and an error shall be
charged to the negligent player.
NOTE: If in the scorer's judgment there was no occasion for the throw, an
error shall be charged to the fielder who threw the ball.
(f) When an umpire awards the batter or any runner or runners one or
more bases because of interference or obstruction, charge the fielder who
committed the interference or obstruction with one error, no matter how
many bases the batter, or runner or runners, may be advanced.
NOTE: Do not charge an error if obstruction does not change the play in the
opinion of the scorer.

10.14 No error shall be charged in the following cases:
(a) No error shall be charged against the catcher when after receiving
the pitch, he makes a wild throw attempting to prevent a stolen base, unless
the wild throw permits the stealing runner to advance one or more extra
bases, or permits any other runner to advance one or more bases.
(b) No error shall be charged against any fielder who makes a wild
throw if in the scorer's judgment the runner would not have been put out with
ordinary effort by a good throw, unless such wild throw permits any runner
to advance beyond the base he would have reached had the throw not been
wild.
(c) No error shall be charged against any fielder when he makes a wild
throw in attempting to complete a double play or triple play, unless such wild
throw enables any runner to advance beyond the base he would have
reached had the throw not been wild.
NOTE: When a fielder muffs a thrown ball which, if held, would have
completed a double play or triple play, charge an error to the fielder who
drops the ball and credit an assist to the fielder who made the throw.
(d) No error shall be charged against any fielder when, after fumbling a
ground ball or dropping a fly ball, a line drive or a thrown ball, he recovers
the ball in time to force out a runner at any base.
(e) No error shall be charged against any fielder who permits a foul fly
to fall safe with a runner on third base before two are out, if in the scorer's
judgment the fielder deliberately refuses the catch in order that the runner on
third shall not score after the catch.
(f) Because the pitcher and catcher handle the ball much more than
other fielders, certain misplays on pitched balls are defined in Rule 10.15 as
wild pitches and passed balls. No error shall be charged when a wild pitch
or passed ball is scored.
(1) No error shall be charged when the batter is awarded first base
on four called balls or because he was touched by a pitched ball, or when he
reaches first base as the result of a wild pitch or passed ball.
(i) When the third strike is a wild pitch, permitting the batter to
reach first base, score a strikeout and a wild pitch.
(ii) When the third strike is a passed ball, permitting the batter to
reach first base, score a strikeout and a passed ball.
(2) No error shall be charged when a runner or runners advance as
the result of a passed ball, a wild pitch or a balk.
(i) When the fourth called ball is a wild pitch or a passed ball, and
as a result (a) the batter runner advances to a base beyond first base; (b)
any runner forced to advance by the base on balls advances more than one
base, or (c) any runner, not forced to advance, advances one or more
bases, score the base on balls, and also the wild pitch or passed ball, as the
case may be;
(ii) When the catcher recovers the ball after a wild pitch or passed
ball on the third strike, and throws out the batter runner at first base, or tags
out the batter runner, but another runner or runners advance, score the
strikeout, the putout and assists, if any, and credit the advance of the other
runner or runners as having been made on the play.

WILD PITCHES_PASSED BALLS

10.15 (a) A wild pitch shall be charged when a legally delivered ball is so
high, or so wide, or so low that the catcher does not stop and control the
ball by ordinary effort, thereby permitting a runner or runners to advance.
(1) A wild pitch shall be charged when a legally delivered ball
touches the ground before reaching home plate and is not handled by the
catcher, permitting a runner or runners to advance.
(b) A catcher shall be charged with a passed ball when he fails to hold
or to control a legally pitched ball which should have been held or controlled
with ordinary effort, thereby permitting a runner or runners to advance.

BASES ON BALLS

10.16 (a) A base on balls shall be scored whenever a batter is awarded first
base because of four balls having been pitched outside the strike zone, but
when the fourth such ball touches the batter it shall be scored as a "hit
batter." (See 10.18 (h) for procedure when more than one pitcher is
involved in giving a base on balls: Also see 10.17 (b) relative to substitute
batter who receives base on balls.)
(b) Intentional base on balls shall be scored when the pitcher makes no
attempt to throw the last pitch to the batter into the strike zone but purposely
throws the ball wide to the catcher outside the catcher's box. (1) If a batter
awarded a base on balls is called out for refusing to advance to first base, do
not credit the base on balls. Charge a time at bat.

STRIKEOUTS

10.17 (a) A strikeout shall be scored whenever: (1) A batter is put out by a
third strike caught by the catcher; (2) A batter is put out by a third strike not
caught when there is a runner on first before two are out; (3) A batter
becomes a runner because a third strike is not caught; (4) A batter bunts foul
on third strike. EXCEPTION: If such bunt on third strike results in a foul fly
caught by any fielder, do not score a strikeout. Credit the fielder who
catches such foul fly with a putout.
(b) When the batter leaves the game with two strikes against him, and
the substitute batter completes a strikeout, charge the strikeout and the time
at bat to the first batter. If the substitute batter completes the turn at bat in
any other manner, including a base on balls, score the action as having been
that of the substitute batter.

EARNED RUNS

10.18 An earned run is a run for which the pitcher is held accountable. In
determining earned runs, the inning should be reconstructed without the
errors (which include catcher's interference) and passed balls, and the
benefit of the doubt should always be given to the pitcher in determining
which bases would have been reached by errorless play. For the purpose of
determining earned runs, an intentional base on balls, regardless of the
circumstances, shall be construed in exactly the same manner as any other
base on balls.
(a) An earned run shall be charged every time a runner reaches home
base by the aid of safe hits, sacrifice bunts, a sacrifice fly, stolen bases,
putouts, fielder's choices, bases on balls, hit batters, balks or wild pitches
(including a wild pitch on third strike which permits a batter to reach first
base) before fielding chances have been offered to put out the offensive
team. For the purpose of this rule, a defensive interference penalty shall be
construed as a fielding chance.
(1) A wild pitch is solely the pitcher's fault, and contributes to an
earned run just as a base on balls or a balk.
(b) No run shall be earned when scored by a runner who reaches first
base (1) on a hit or otherwise after his time at bat is prolonged by a muffed
foul fly; (2) because of interference or obstruction or (3) because of any
fielding error.
(c) No run shall be earned when scored by a runner whose life is
prolonged by an error, if such runner would have been put out by errorless
play.
(d) No run shall be earned when the runner's advance is aided by an
error, a passed ball, or defensive interference or obstruction, if the scorer
judges that the run would not have scored without the aid of such misplay.
(e) An error by a pitcher is treated exactly the same as an error by any
other fielder in computing earned runs.
(f) Whenever a fielding error occurs, the pitcher shall be given the
benefit of the doubt in determining to which bases any runners would have
advanced had the fielding of the defensive team been errorless.
(g) When pitchers are changed during an inning, the relief pitcher shall
not be charged with any run (earned or unearned) scored by a runner who
was on base at the time he entered the game, nor for runs scored by any
runner who reaches base on a fielder's choice which puts out a runner left on
base by the preceding pitcher.
NOTE: It is the intent of this rule to charge each pitcher with the number of
runners he put on base, rather than with the individual runners. When a
pitcher puts runners on base, and is relieved, he shall be charged with all
runs subsequently scored up to and including the number of runners he left
on base when he left the game, unless such runners are put out without
action by the batter, i.e., caught stealing, picked off base, or called out for
interference when a batter runner does not reach first base on the play.
EXCEPTION: see example 7.
EXAMPLES: (1) P1 walks A and is relieved by P2. B grounds out, sending
A to second. C flies out. D singles, scoring A. Charge run to P1.
(2) P1 walks A and is relieved by P2. B forces A at second. C
grounds out, sending B to second. D singles, scoring B. Charge run to P1.
(3) P1 walks A and is relieved by P2. B singles, sending A to
third. C grounds to short, and A is out at home, B going to second. D flies
out. E singles, scoring B. Charge run to P1.
(4) P1 walks A and is relieved by P2. B walks. C flies out. A is
picked off second. D doubles, scoring B from first. Charge run to P2.
(5) P1 walks A and is relieved by P2. P2 walks B and is
relieved by P3. C forces A at third. D forces B at third. E hits home run,
scoring three runs. Charge one run to P1; one run to P2, one run to P3.
(6) P1 walks A, and is relieved by P2, P2 walks B. C singles,
filling the bases. D forces A at home. E singles, scoring B and C. Charge
one run to P1 and one run to P2.
(7) P1 walks A, and is relieved by P2. P2 allows B to single,
but A is out trying for third. B takes second on the throw. C singles, scoring
B. Charge run to P2.
(h) A relief pitcher shall not be held accountable when the first batter to
whom he pitches reaches first base on four called balls if such batter has a
decided advantage in the ball and strike count when pitchers are changed.
(1) If, when pitchers are changed, the count is
2 balls, no strike,
2 balls, 1 strike,
3 balls, no strike,
3 balls, 1 strike,
3 balls, 2 strikes, and the batter gets a base on balls, charge that
batter and the base on balls to the preceding pitcher, not to the relief pitcher.

(2) Any other action by such batter, such as reaching base on a hit,
an error, a fielder's choice, a force out, or being touched by a pitched ball,
shall cause such a batter to be charged to the relief pitcher.
NOTE: The provisions of 10.18 (h) (2) shall not be construed as affecting or
conflicting with the provisions of 10.18 (g).
(3) If, when pitchers are changed, the count is
2 balls, 2 strikes,
1 ball, 2 strikes,
1 ball, 1 strike,
1 ball, no strike,
no ball, 2 strikes,
no ball, 1 strike, charge that batter and his actions to the relief
pitcher.
(i) When pitchers are changed during an inning, the relief pitcher
shall not have the benefit of previous chances for outs not accepted in
determining earned runs.
NOTE: It is the intent of this rule to charge relief pitchers with earned runs
for which they are solely responsible. In some instances, runs charged as
earned against the relief pitcher can be charged as unearned against the
team.
EXAMPLES: (1) With two out, P1 walks A. B reaches base on an error.
P2 relieves P1. C hits home run, scoring three runs. Charge two unearned
runs to P1, one earned run to P2.
(2) With two out, P1 walks A and B and is relieved by P2. C
reaches base on an error. D hits home run, scoring four runs. Charge two
unearned runs to P1, two unearned runs to P2.
(3) With none out, P1 walks A. B reaches base on an error. P2
relieves P1. C hits home run, scoring three runs. D and E strike out. F
reaches base on an error. G hits home run, scoring two runs. Charge two
runs, one earned, to P1. Charge three runs, one earned, to P2.

WINNING AND LOSING PITCHER

10.19 (a) Credit the starting pitcher with a game won only if he has pitched
at least five complete innings and his team not only is in the lead when he is
replaced but remains in the lead the remainder of the game.
(b) The "must pitch five complete innings" rule in respect to the starting
pitcher shall be in effect for all games of six or more innings. In a five inning
game, credit the starting pitcher with a game won if he has pitched at least
four complete innings and his team not only is in the lead when he is replaced
but remains in the lead the remainder of the game.
(c) When the starting pitcher cannot be credited with the victory
because of the provisions of 10.19 (a) or (b) and more than one relief
pitcher is used, the victory shall be awarded on the following basis:
(1) When, during the tenure of the starting pitcher, the winning team
assumes the lead and maintains it to the finish of the game, credit the victory
to the relief pitcher judged by the scorer to have been the most effective;
(2) Whenever the score is tied the game becomes a new contest
insofar as the winning and losing pitcher is concerned;
(3) Once the opposing team assumes the lead all pitchers who have
pitched up to that point are excluded from being credited with the victory
except that if the pitcher against whose pitching the opposing team gained
the lead continues to pitch until his team regains the lead, which it holds to
the finish of the game, that pitcher shall be the winning pitcher;
(4) The winning relief pitcher shall be the one who is the pitcher of
record when his team assumes the lead and maintains it to the finish of the
game. EXCEPTION: Do not credit a victory to a relief pitcher who is
ineffective in a brief appearance, when a succeeding relief pitcher pitches
effectively in helping his team maintain the lead. In such cases, credit the
succeeding relief pitcher with the victory.
(d) When a pitcher is removed for a substitute batter or substitute
runner, all runs scored by his team during the inning in which he is removed
shall be credited to his benefit in determining the pitcher of record when his
team assumes the lead.
(e) Regardless of how many innings the first pitcher has pitched, he shall
be charged with the loss of the game if he is replaced when his team is
behind in the score, or falls behind because of runs charged to him after he is
replaced, and his team thereafter fails either to tie the score or gain the lead.
(f) No pitcher shall be credited with pitching a shutout unless he pitches
the complete game, or unless he enters the game with none out before the
opposing team has scored in the first inning, puts out the side without a run
scoring and pitches all the rest of the game. When two or more pitchers
combine to pitch a shutout a notation to that effect should be included in the
league's official pitching records.
(g) In some non championship games (such as the Major League All
Star Game) it is provided in advance that each pitcher shall work a stated
number of innings, usually two or three. In such games, it is customary to
credit the victory to the pitcher of record, whether starter or reliever, when
the winning team takes a lead which it maintains to the end of the game,
unless such pitcher is knocked out after the winning team has a commanding
lead, and the scorer believes a subsequent pitcher is entitled to credit for the
victory.

SAVES FOR RELIEF PITCHERS

10.20 Credit a pitcher with a save when he meets all three of the following
conditions:
(1) He is the finishing pitcher in a game won by his club; and
(2) He is not the winning pitcher; and
(3) He qualifies under one of the following conditions:
(a) He enters the game with a lead of no more than three runs and
pitches for at least one inning; or
(b) He enters the game, regardless of the count, with the potential tying
run either on base, or at bat, or on deck (that is, the potential tying run is
either already on base or is one of the first two batsmen he faces); or
(c) He pitches effectively for at least three innings. No more than one
save may be credited in each game.

STATISTICS

10.21 The league president shall appoint an official statistician. The
statistician shall maintain an accumulative record of all the batting, fielding,
running and pitching records specified in 10.02 for every player who
appears in a league championship game. The statistician shall prepare a
tabulated report at the end of the season, including all individual and team
records for every championship game, and shall submit this report to the
league president. This report shall identify each player by his first name and
surname, and shall indicate as to each batter whether he bats righthanded,
lefthanded or both ways; as to each fielder and pitcher, whether he throws
righthanded or lefthanded. When a player listed in the starting lineup for the
visiting club is substituted for before he plays defensively, he shall not receive
credit in the defensive statistics (fielding), unless he actually plays that
position during a game. All such players, however, shall be credited with one
game played (in "batting statistics") as long as they are announced into the
game or listed on the official lineup card. Any games played to break a
divisional tie shall be included in the statistics for that championship season.

DETERMINING PERCENTAGE RECORDS

10.22 To compute
(a) Percentage of games won and lost, divide the number of games won
by the total games won and lost;
(b) Batting average, divide the total number of safe hits (not the total
bases on hits) by the total times at bat, as defined in 10.02 (a);
(c) Slugging percentage, divide the total bases of all safe hits by the total
times at bat, as defined in 10.02 (a);
(d) Fielding average, divide the total putouts and assists by the total of
putouts, assists and errors;
(e) Pitcher's earned run average, multiply the total earned runs charged
against his pitching by 9, and divide the result by the total number of innings
he pitched.
NOTE: Earned run average shall be calculated on the basis of total innings
pitched including fractional innings. EXAMPLE: 9 1/3 innings pitched and 3
earned runs is an earned run average of 2.89 (3 ER times 9 divided by 9 1/3
equals 2.89).
(f) On base percentage, divide the total of hits, all bases on balls, and hit
by pitch by the total of at bats, all bases on balls, hit by pitch and sacrifice
flies.
NOTE: For the purpose of computing on base percentage, ignore being
awarded first base on interference or obstruction.

MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

10.23 To assure uniformity in establishing the batting, pitching and fielding
championships of professional leagues, such champions shall meet the
following minimum performance standards:
(a) The individual batting champion or slugging champion shall be the
player with the highest batting average or slugging percentage, provided he is
credited with as many or more total appearances at the plate in League
Championship games as the number of games scheduled for each club in his
league that season, multiplied by 3.1 in the case of a major league player.
EXCEPTION: However, if there is any player with fewer than the required
number of plate appearances whose average would be the highest, if he
were charged with the required number of plate appearances or official at
bats, then that player shall be awarded the batting championship or slugging
championship. EXAMPLE: If a major league schedules 162 games for each
club, 502 plate appearances qualify (162 times 3.1 equals 502). If a
National Association league schedules 140 games for each club, 378 plate
appearances qualify (140 times 2.7 equals 378). Total appearances at the
plate shall include official times at bat, plus bases on balls, times hit by
pitcher, sacrifice hits, sacrifice flies and times awarded first base because of
interference or obstruction.
(b) The individual pitching champion shall be the pitcher with the lowest
earned run average, provided that he has pitched at least as many innings as
the number of games scheduled for each club in his league that season.
EXCEPTION: However, pitchers in National Association leagues shall
qualify for the pitching championship by having the lowest earned run
average and having pitched at least as many innings as 80% of the number of
games scheduled for each club in his league that season.
(c) The individual fielding champions shall be the fielders with the highest
fielding average at each position, provided:
(1) A catcher must have participated as a catcher in at least one half
the number of games scheduled for each club in his league that season;
(2) An infielder or outfielder must have participated at his position in
at least two thirds of the number of games scheduled for each club in his
league that season;
(3) A pitcher must have pitched at least as many innings as the
number of games scheduled for each club in his league that season.
EXCEPTION: If another pitcher has a fielding average as high or higher,
and has handled more total chances in a lesser number of innings, he shall be
the fielding champion.

GUIDELINES FOR CUMULATIVE PERFORMANCE RECORDS

10.24 CONSECUTIVE HITTING STREAKS.
(a) A consecutive hitting streak shall not be terminated if the plate
appearance results in a base on balls, hit batsman, defensive interference or
a sacrifice bunt. A sacrifice fly shall terminate the streak.
(b) CONSECUTIVE GAME HITTING STREAKS. A consecutive
game hitting streak shall not be terminated if all the player's plate
appearances (one or more) result in a base on balls, hit batsman, defensive
interference or a sacrifice bunt. The streak shall terminate if the player has a
sacrifice fly and no hit. The player's individual consecutive game hitting
streak shall be determined by the consecutive games in which the player
appears and is not determined by his club's games.
(c) CONSECUTIVE PLAYING STREAK. A consecutive game
playing streak shall be extended if the player plays one half inning on
defense, or if he completes a time at bat by reaching base or being put out.
A pinch running appearance only shall not extend the streak. If a player is
ejected from a game by an umpire before he can comply with the
requirements of this rule, his streak shall continue.
(d) SUSPENDED GAMES. For the purpose of this rule, all
performances in the completion of a suspended game shall be considered as
occurring on the original date of the game.

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