Glossary
RBI (run batted in)
An RBI, or run batted in, is credited to a batter for each run that scores because of their turn at bat: on a hit, a sacrifice, an out, a fielder's choice, or a walk or hit by pitch with the bases loaded.
Most RBIs come on hits. A single that scores the runner from second is one RBI, a bases-loaded double that clears the bases is three, and a home run counts the batter's own run too, so a grand slam is four.
The batter also gets one when they make an out that brings the run home: a ground ball to second that scores the runner from third with less than two outs, or a sacrifice fly. A batter who walks or is hit by a pitch with the bases loaded forces in a run and gets an RBI for it.
There are three common exceptions. No RBI on a ground ball double play, even if a run crosses the plate, or on a force play that would have been a double play without an error. No RBI for a run that scores because of an error, unless the run would have scored anyway. And no RBI for a run that scores on a wild pitch, passed ball or balk, since the batter did nothing to drive it in.
On a score sheet, the usual mark is a dot in a corner of the batter's box for each run driven in, so a scorekeeper can count a player's RBIs down the column at the end of the game. Our score sheets' "How to keep score" page shows where it goes.
Examples
- Bases loaded, a two-run single: 2 RBIs.
- Runner on third, one out, a ground ball to short and the run scores as the batter is thrown out: 1 RBI.
- Runner on third, one out, a ground ball double play: the run does not count, and there is no RBI.
- Bases loaded, a walk: 1 RBI.
Put it on a card: Score sheets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a home run count as an RBI?
Yes. The batter gets an RBI for their own run plus one for every runner who scores, so a solo home run is one RBI and a grand slam is four.
Do you get an RBI on a double play?
No. A run that scores on a ground ball double play is not an RBI, even when it counts. With two outs a double play ends the inning and the run does not count at all.
Do you get an RBI on an error?
Not for a run that scores because of the error. If the run would have scored without it, with less than two outs, the scorer can still give the RBI.
Is a walk with the bases loaded an RBI?
Yes, and so is a hit by pitch or catcher's interference with the bases loaded.
More in the glossary
Start free. Upgrade when your season needs it.
The free plan includes one team and one of each document type, with no license fee and no credit card. Paid plans start at $2.50 a month billed annually, cancel anytime.
No credit card required. Free plan available.