In baseball, double plays are one of the most exciting events during a game. A double play occurs when two batters are out in the same play. These plays can be chaotic and often result in some wild throws and quick decisions by the infielders.
Despite the excitement of double plays, one of the most confusing aspects of baseball is the terminology used to describe them. In particular, double plays are often referred to using a set of numbers, such as “6-4-3”. But why is a double play called 6 4 3?
In this article, we’ll explore the origins of this terminology and how it is used to describe different types of double plays. We’ll also explain why and how the numbers 6 4 3 can be used to indicate a double play.
Origins of the Terminology
The term “double play” is believed to have originated in the late 19th century. It was originally used to describe a play involving two runners being put out in one action. The exact origin of the term is unknown, but it is thought to have been coined by an American baseball player.
The term “6-4-3” was first used in the 1920s to refer to a double play involving the shortstop, second baseman, and first baseman. It is believed to have been invented by baseball statisticians as a shorthand way to refer to the play.
What Does 6 4 3 Mean?
The numbers 6-4-3 refer to the defensive players involved in the double play. The number “6” refers to the shortstop, “4” to the second baseman, and “3” to the first baseman.
In a standard double play, the shortstop fields the ball and throws it to the second baseman, who then throws it to the first baseman. This is why the numbers 6 4 3 are used to refer to a double play.
However, the numbers 6-4-3 can also be used to refer to double plays that involve different combinations of players. For example, if the shortstop fields the ball and throws it to the third baseman, who then throws it to the first baseman, the double play can still be referred to as a “6-4-3”.
How is the 6 4 3 Double Play Executed?
The 6 4 3 double play is one of the most common double plays in baseball. It is typically executed when there are runners on first and second base.
The shortstop fields the ball and throws it to the second baseman, who then throws it to the first baseman. The first baseman catches the ball and tags the runner coming from second base. If the runner from first base has not reached the base by the time the first baseman catches the ball, they are also out.
The 6 4 3 double play is often referred to as the “around the horn” double play due to the fact that the ball is thrown “around the horn” of the infield.
Conclusion
The term “6-4-3” is used to refer to a double play involving the shortstop, second baseman, and first baseman. It is believed to have originated in the 1920s as a shorthand way to describe the play.
The numbers 6-4-3 refer to the defensive players involved in the double play. The number “6” refers to the shortstop, “4” to the second baseman, and “3” to the first baseman. The 6 4 3 double play is typically executed when there are runners on first and second base.
Understanding the terminology used to describe double plays can help you better understand the game of baseball. The next time you see a double play being referred to as a “6-4-3”, you’ll know exactly what is going on.