Baseball is the only sport in which the defense has the ball. In every other sport, the offense has the ball and the defense tries to stop them. But in baseball, the pitcher has the ball and the batter tries to hit it. This may seem like a small difference, but it completely changes the strategy of the game.
There are many things that make baseball unique from other sports. One of the most interesting aspects of the game is the special set of rules that apply only to baseball. These rules can be confusing for new fans, but once you understand them, they add an extra layer of complexity and intrigue to America’s favorite pastime. Here are five of the most unique rules in baseball.
The Pitcher’s Plate
The pitcher’s plate is a special piece of equipment that pitchers use when they’re on the mound. This plate is larger than the other bases, and it’s also raised slightly off the ground. The purpose of the pitcher’s plate is to give pitchers a stable surface to throw from. It also prevents batters from getting too close to the pitcher while they’re swinging.
The Designated Hitter Rule
In most baseball games, each team has nine players who take turns batting and playing defense. However, there’s a rule in place that allows teams to use a designated hitter (DH). A DH is a player who only bats and doesn’t play defense. The DH rule was first used in 1973, and it’s been a part of the game ever since. Many fans enjoy the DH because it adds an extra element of offense to the game.
The Infield Fly Rule
The infield fly rule is a rule that’s designed to protect fielders from being hit by batted balls. This rule only applies when there are runners on first and second base with fewer than two outs. If a fielder tries to catch a ball that’s been hit in the air and he misses it, the batter is automatically out—even if the ball falls in fair territory. This rule is in place because fielders are more likely to get hurt when they have to catch balls that are hit hard and low to the ground.
The Balk Rule
The balk rule is another one that’s designed to protect fielders. It prevents pitchers from deceiving baserunners by making them think that they’re about to throw the ball when they’re not actually going to throw it. If a pitcher breaks this rule, the baserunner automatically advances one base.
The Mercy Rule
The mercy rule is a rule that ends baseball games early if one team is ahead by 10 or more runs after seven innings have been played. This rule exists because there’s no point in continuing a game if one team is so far ahead that the other team doesn’t stand a chance of winning. By ending the game early, everyone can go home and save some time!
Conclusion
These are just five of the many special rules that govern baseball games! These rules are designed to protect players, speed up the game, or add an extra element of offense or defense. Do you know of any other special rules in baseball? Let us know in the comments below!
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