Glossary
Double play and triple play (DP, TP)
A double play (DP) is one continuous play that records two outs; a triple play (TP) records three. The most common is the 6-4-3: shortstop to second base to first base on a ground ball.
Two outs count as a double play only when they happen on the same play, with no error or misplay between them. A ground ball that forces the runner at second and the batter at first is a double play. So is a line drive caught by the second baseman, who then steps on second before the runner gets back.
On the score sheet, write the fielders in order with DP after them: 6-4-3 DP, 4-6-3 DP, 5-4-3 DP, or L4-4 DP for the line drive doubled off second. Mark the out on each runner's line as well, so both outs show in their boxes. A triple play is written the same way with TP, and is rare enough that most scorekeepers will write one only a handful of times.
A ground ball double play changes the batter's line. The batter gets no RBI, even if a run crosses the plate on it, and is charged with grounding into a double play (GDP) where the book tracks it. A sacrifice bunt that turns into a double play is not a sacrifice; the batter is charged with an at-bat.
Coaches set the defense for it. With a runner on first and fewer than two outs, the middle infielders play at double-play depth, a step or two closer to second and to home, to shorten the turn. A defensive lineup or depth chart that names the pivot fielder at second keeps the play the same from game to game.
Examples
- Runner on first, ground ball to short, to second for one, to first for two: 6-4-3 DP.
- Runner on second, line drive caught by the shortstop, who steps on second before the runner returns: L6-6 DP (unassisted).
- Runner on first, strikeout and the runner is thrown out stealing: K, CS 2-6, a strike-out double play.
- Runners on first and second, ground ball to third, who steps on third, throws to second, then to first: 5-4-3 TP.
Put it on a card: Score sheets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a batter get an RBI on a double play?
Not on a ground ball double play, even if a run scores on it. A run that scores on a double play started by a fly ball, such as a sacrifice fly with a runner doubled off, can still earn an RBI.
What does 6-4-3 mean?
Shortstop (6) to second base (4) to first base (3): the most common double play.
Is a strikeout and a caught stealing a double play?
Yes, when they come on the same pitch. Scorers call it a strike-out, throw-out double play.
What is double-play depth?
Where the shortstop and second baseman play when a double play is possible: a step or two closer to second base and to home plate, so the turn is quicker.
More in the glossary
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