Overview
A fielder's choice occurs when the defense opts to throw to a base other than first to retire a preceding runner, allowing the batter-runner to reach base. The batter is not credited with a hit, and the plate appearance counts as an at bat, lowering the batting average. A typical scenario involves a ground ball with a runner on first, where the shortstop throws to second to initiate a double play. If only the lead runner is retired while the batter reaches first, it is scored a fielder's choice. The play reflects the defense's tactical decision rather than the batter's hitting ability, which fundamentally distinguishes it from a hit. In on-base percentage calculations, reaching base on a fielder's choice does not count toward the numerator.