| At bat in softball, there should be only one statistic that counts – on base percentage. Calculated by taking the number of plate appearances subtracting the number of sacrifices1 and fielder’s choices2 and dividing it into the number of times that a player gets on base, the on base percentage provides an |
Unfortunately, teams, coaches and fans rarely focus on this indicator of offensive prowess. There is something about a walk that scores a runner that is simply too pedestrian. There is no sense of drama, excitement or accomplishment when a runner scores because a pitcher walkers the player at bat.
The run counts the same as a solo shot, RBI double or inside-the-park home run, but it doesn’t look or feel the same. This may be because a walk generally feels like it is due to the incompetence of the pitcher rather than the acumen and skill of the batter. Yet, baseball’s Rickey Henderson made walking an art form.
If someone can get on base every time that she is at bat, she will be able to advance the runners before her and provide an RBI possibility for the batter behind her. When the goal is to score runs, it shouldn’t matter how they come in. A runner that scores from third because of a base hit or a walk should be greeted with the same enthusiasm.
Getting on base should be the focus of every team and every player. While hits are more exciting and easier to get behind, a walk should be just as celebrated as a base hit even if it isn’t as pretty, especially when the bases are loaded.
1 – A sacrifice is a ball hit well enough that the runner on third can score even though the hitter gets out.
2 – A fielder’s choice is a play where the fielder throws the ball to get a runner other than the hitter out.