Definition: A walk occurs when a pitcher throws four pitches outside of the strike zone (called “balls”) before the batter hits the ball or strikes out. When this happens, the batter is allowed to go to first base automatically without the risk of being put out.
A walk is also known as “Base on Balls.” It is a way for a batter to reach base by being patient and not swinging at bad pitches. If there is already a runner on first base when a walk happens, that runner is “forced” to move to second base to make room for the batter. If the bases are loaded, a walk actually scores a run for the hitting team.
Example: The pitcher couldn’t find the strike zone, eventually giving the batter a walk on four straight pitches.
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