A putout in MLB.com fantasy baseball leagues, like the 2023 season's $25 roto league, credits fielders for recording 1 point per out. This statistic is crucial for players like Mookie Betts of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who achieved 264 putouts last year. It is best for evaluating individual defensive contributions.
TL;DR
A putout (PO) occurs when a defensive player physically completes an out. Current MLB leaders like Shohei Ohtani or Freddie Freeman see high PO counts because first basemen and catchers handle the ball most often. It's a critical metric for evaluating defensive efficiency and reliable fielding performance across all professional levels.
Why is the Putout Statistic Important?
A putout measures the finality of a defensive play by identifying which player officially retired the batter or runner. While pitchers throw the strikes, the PO reward goes to the player who secures the ball to end the play.
Recording these stats helps teams evaluate player range and reliability. Catchers earn the most putouts because strikeouts count as putouts for them. First basemen rank second due to frequent force outs.
Sources:MLB Glossary on Putouts
How Does a Player Earn a Putout?
Players earn a putout by being the final person to handle the ball during an out without committing an error. This includes catching a third strike, catching a popup, or stepping on a base during a force play.
Common scenarios for awarding a PO include:
- Catching a ball in flight before it hits the ground
- Tagging a runner who is off their base
- Touching a base while holding the ball before a forced runner arrives
- Being the nearest fielder when a runner is called out for interference
Sources:Baseball Reference Stat Definitions
How to Determine Which Fielder Gets Credit
Deciding which fielder earns the putout depends on the specific rule governing the out. It generally goes to the person who physically completes the action, such as catching the ball or tagging the bag.
- Check if the out was a strikeout (Catcher)
- See who caught the fly ball (The fielder who made the catch)
- Identify who touched the base on a force (The player at the bag)
- Note if the runner was tagged out (The player applying the tag)
Final Thoughts
Understanding the PO statistic helps fans appreciate the defensive side of baseball beyond simple batting averages. It highlights the tireless work of catchers and first basemen during every Nine-inning game.