Hit by pitch (HBP) is a common occurrence in baseball, with pitchers often trying to throw close enough to the batter to make them flinch or swing. Many batters have been hit by pitches throughout the history of the game, and some have had more success at avoiding them than others. Here, we will look at some of the players who have the most HBP in baseball history and what has made them so successful at avoiding getting hit.
Overview of Hit By Pitch
Hit by pitch is a way for a pitcher to try and get a batter out, by throwing close enough for them to flinch or swing. It is a risky move, as it can lead to injury, and sometimes a batter will take offence and charge the mound. However, many pitchers do use it as a way to get batters out, and a good pitcher will try to aim the ball in such a way that it either hits the batter, or just misses and they are forced to swing at it.
The Most Hit By Pitch Players in Baseball
When it comes to players who have been hit by pitch the most, it is no surprise that some of the most famous names in baseball are at the top. Here are some of the players with the most HBP in baseball history:
1. Craig Biggio: Biggio has been hit by pitch a record 285 times, making him the all-time leader in this category. He was known for his ability to avoid getting hit and often took a step out of the way when he saw the ball coming.
2. Don Baylor: Baylor is second on the list with 267 HBP and was also known for his ability to avoid getting hit. He often tried to anticipate where the pitch was going to be and adjust his stance accordingly.
3. Jason Giambi: Giambi is third on the list with 259 HBP and was known for his willingness to take a hit if it meant getting on base. He was also known for being able to anticipate where the pitch was going and adjusting his stance accordingly.
4. Chase Utley: Utley is fourth on the list with 250 HBP and was known for his willingness to take a pitch if it meant getting on base. He also had a good eye for the ball and was able to anticipate where it was going and adjust his stance accordingly.
5. Frank Robinson: Robinson is fifth on the list with 243 HBP and was known for his willingness to take a hit if it meant getting on base. He was also known for being able to anticipate where the pitch was going and adjusting his stance accordingly.
How to Avoid Getting Hit By Pitch
There are a few techniques that can be used to avoid getting hit by pitch. Here are some of the most common ones:
1. Anticipate the Pitch: The most important thing to do is to try and anticipate where the pitch is going to be and adjust your stance accordingly. This will give you the best chance of avoiding the ball.
2. Move Away From the Pitch: If the pitch is coming in towards you, move away from it. This will give you the best chance of avoiding the ball.
3. Wear Protective Gear: Wear protective gear such as a helmet or pads to protect yourself from the ball if it does hit you.
4. Keep Your Head Down: Keeping your head down will give you the best chance of avoiding the ball. It will also help you to see the ball better and anticipate where it is going.
5. Don’t Crowd the Plate: Don’t stand too close to the plate, as this will give the pitcher a better chance of hitting you.
Conclusion
Hit by pitch is a common occurrence in baseball and some players have been hit more than others. Craig Biggio is the all-time leader in this category with 285 HBP, followed by Don Baylor, Jason Giambi, Chase Utley and Frank Robinson. There are a few techniques that can be used to avoid getting hit by pitch, such as anticipating where the pitch is going to be, moving away from the pitch, wearing protective gear, keeping your head down and not crowding the plate.