Glossary
Box score
A box score is the numerical written summary of one game: the line score of runs by inning, each batter's at-bats, runs, hits and RBIs, and each pitcher's innings, hits, runs, earned runs, walks and strikeouts.
Everything in a box score comes from the score sheet. The scorekeeper adds up each batter's row and each pitcher's line after the game, and the box is those totals in a table. Newspapers, scoring apps and league websites all print it the same way, so a parent reading the paper and a coach reading the book see the same game.
The line score sits at the top: one row per team, a column per inning with the runs scored in it, then R (runs), H (hits) and E (errors). An X in the home team's last column means they did not need to bat, because they were already ahead.
Under it, the batting lines list each player in batting order with AB (at-bats), R (runs), H (hits), RBI, and usually BB (walks) and SO (strikeouts). Substitutes are indented under the player they replaced. Notes below the table list the doubles, triples, home runs, stolen bases, errors and players left on base.
The pitching lines list each pitcher in the order they pitched: IP (innings pitched), H, R, ER (earned runs), BB and SO, often with the pitch count. The box also checks the book. Each team's at-bats, walks, hit batters and sacrifices should account for every run, every player left on base and every out the other team made; if they don't, a box on the score sheet is missing a mark.
Examples
- Line score: Eagles 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 — 4 R, 7 H, 1 E.
- Batting line: Smith, SS: 4 AB, 1 R, 2 H, 1 RBI, 0 BB, 1 SO.
- Pitching line: Lopez: 5.2 IP, 5 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 6 SO.
- Notes: 2B Smith, Diaz. SB Carter 2. E Jones. LOB Eagles 6.
Put it on a card: Score sheets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you read a box score?
Start with the line score at the top for runs by inning. Then read each batter's row (AB, R, H, RBI) and each pitcher's row (IP, H, R, ER, BB, SO). The notes under the table list extra-base hits, steals and errors.
What does the X in a line score mean?
The home team did not bat in that inning because it was already ahead, so the game ended after the top half.
What is the difference between R and ER in a box score?
R is every run the pitcher allowed. ER counts only earned runs, leaving out runs that scored because of errors or passed balls. ERA uses ER.
How do you make a box score from a score sheet?
Total each batter's row (at-bats, runs, hits, RBIs, walks and strikeouts) and each pitcher's line, then add the runs per inning for the line score. Check that the totals balance before you post it.
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