base on balls

noun

, Baseball.

, plural bases on balls.

1. the awarding of first base to a batter to whom four balls have been pitched.

Word History and Origins

Origin of base on balls¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

The first time was intentional, his major league-leading 16th intentional base on balls this season.

From Los Angeles Times

Suarez’s base on balls was one of seven on the day for the Mariners, which was taking advantage of a shaky Framber Valdez on the mound.

From Seattle Times

And Soto played like his elite self, smacking at least one base hit in all three games and, of course, tallying four bases on balls.

From Washington Times

Before Tuesday’s start, Adon had walked 23 batters in 32 innings across seven starts and was coming off back-to-back outings with five base on balls allowed.

From Washington Times

Adon also walked five in his previous start against the Angels and has allowed three base on balls in five of his seven starts.

From Washington Times