Walking occurs when a batter receives four balls during a single turn at bat. The umpire awards the hitter a free trip to the first base bag. This result happens when the pitcher fails to throw the ball in strike zone. Walks are an effective way for the offense to reach base without hitting. A pitcher throws a fourth ball wide of the plate to the batter. The hitter drops the bat and jogs safely to the first base area. Any runners forced to move by this arrival also advance to the next base. Patience at the plate is a key skill for hitters to earn walks. Teams use walks to build scoring threats and tire out the opposing pitcher.
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