When playing baseball, the umpire calls strikes and calls foul balls. A strike is a pitch that is inside the batter’s strike zone. Batters must swing at any pitch within this zone, but foul balls count as strikes up to the third strike. The umpire determines the strike zone by putting a white line on the strike zone on the field.
Origins
There are several theories as to the origin of baseball. Some believe it was an English game, while others say it is an American one. Many people believe it developed from earlier English games, such as rounders and one-ol’-cat. However, these theories are speculative.
Structure
The structure of baseball provides the opportunity for many rare and impressive performances. For example, a no-hit game, a high strikeout rate, or a six-for-six game by a batter are all noteworthy moments. A four-home run game, however, is arguably the most incredible feat in baseball. And it can be achieved by a team that plays amazingly together. No one single player can accomplish this feat on his own, however.
Rules
A baseball game is played under a series of rules. The first rule relates to the batter’s turn at bat. If the batter gets a pitch over home plate, he or she is considered to be on base. A strike is defined as a baseball pitched over the plate or above the batter’s knee or belt. The umpire may interpret the strike zone differently, depending on the situation. A strike also occurs if a batter misses the ball or hits it foul. A strike is a first or second strike. If a batter hits the ball foul, he is out.
Traditions
Baseball is a sport with a rich history of tradition. It is one of the oldest professional sports in North America, and the second-oldest sport. The game’s history goes back to the mid-1800s, so its traditions are extensive.
Official game stats
Statistics are an essential part of baseball, and they have been part of the game for over a century. No other sport has a more intimate relationship with stats than baseball. Every play is documented, and you can see these statistics on the back of baseball cards.
Nationalistic sentiment
Baseball is a uniquely American sport, and, as such, carries inherent nationalistic sentiments. The game is played among all social classes and cultural groups, and has a long history of fostering this sentiment. During WWI and WWII, factories and offices held sections of baseball teams, creating a working-class ethos. Baseball was also brought to San Francisco from New York City by young mechanics and tradesmen.
