SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/base-error

In scorekeeping, when is a fielder charged with an error?

When he misplays a ball an average fielder should handle.

Start playing free

  1. When a pitch gets past the catcher
  2. When he misplays a ball an average fielder should handle ✔
  3. When a hit bounces off the outfield wall

Why: The official scorer charges an error when a fielder fails to make an out an average fielder would make, or lets runners move up with a poor play.

Huh, didn't know that: Runs that would not have scored without an error are not earned runs for the pitcher.

The dad joke
Why did the fielder carry an eraser? To fix his error.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: When he misplays a ball an average fielder should handle. The official scorer charges an error when a fielder fails to make an out an average fielder would make, or lets runners move up with a poor play.

  1. Error (MLB Glossary) www.mlb.com/glossary/standard-stats/error
    he fails to convert an out on a play that an average fielder should have made
    Checked 2026-10-12.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessWhich scorekeeping number is used for the shortstop?Sports & FitnessWhat does a 6-4-3 double play mean?Sports & FitnessWhat is a fielder's choice?

That's stuff everyone should know.