Baseball is a bat-and-ball game played between two teams of nine players each. It’s a popular sport known for its strategic gameplay and long history.
Key Characteristics / Core Concepts
- Two teams take turns batting and fielding.
- The objective is to score runs by hitting a pitched ball and running around four bases.
- Games consist of nine innings, with each team getting a turn at bat in each inning.
- Pitching, hitting, and fielding are crucial skills.
- Strategic decisions involving pitching changes, batting orders, and defensive positioning are vital.
How It Works / Its Function
A pitcher throws a ball to a batter, who attempts to hit it. If the batter hits the ball, they run around the bases trying to score a run before the fielding team can get them out. The game involves a complex interplay of hitting, pitching, running, and fielding skills.
Various rules determine if a batter is out (e.g., striking out, being tagged out, fly ball caught).
Examples
- The World Series is a championship series played between the champions of the American League and National League.
- Major League Baseball (MLB) is a professional baseball league in the United States and Canada.
- Many college and high school teams also compete in baseball leagues.
Why is it Important? / Significance
Baseball is a beloved sport with a rich history and passionate fanbase. It fosters teamwork, athleticism, and strategic thinking. It’s also a significant source of entertainment and economic activity.
Beyond its professional leagues, baseball is played recreationally by millions across the globe, contributing to community building and physical activity.
Related Concepts
- Softball
- Cricket
- Rounding the bases