Baseball scorecards are a time-honored tradition that allow fans to keep a record of the game as it unfolds. While box scores published after the game provide basic statistics, scorecards offer a more detailed account of each at-bat and play on the field. For diehard baseball enthusiasts, keeping a scorecard is a cherished part of experiencing America’s pastime.
There are different styles of baseball scorecards, but they generally include spaces to record each half-inning along with columns to track details for each batter and pitcher. Basic information included on scorecards includes the teams playing, date, starting pitchers, and sometimes the umpires. More advanced scorecards have additional columns to note defensive shifts, stolen base attempts, pitching changes, and other unique plays.
While scorecards were originally just for dedicated scorekeepers at the ballpark, today there are many printable PDF scorecard templates available online for fans to download. Websites run by the MLB, individual teams, and scorekeeping hobbyists offer a variety of options to suit different scoring preferences. Generic scorecards with basic stat tracking are ideal for casual fans learning the fundamentals. More intricate templates appeal to statisticians who want to document every nuance.
The basic process for using a baseball scorecard is as follows:
At the top of each half-inning, record the inning number, home/away, and number of outs to start. Then for each batter, note their last name (or number) in the box corresponding to their spot in the batting order. As the at-bat progresses, track balls, strikes, fouls, the outcome of the plate appearance and any advanced stats in the appropriate columns. Was it a single, double, home run? Did they walk, get hit by a pitch or strike out?
For pitchers, log the starting and any relief pitchers in a row at the top. In their columns, mark each pitch result like you would for batters. Also note pitching changes, the new pitcher’s name/number and the number of pitches thrown by any relievers when they enter the game.
On defense, log putouts, assists and errors next to the fielding positions. You can also note double plays, caught stealings and pickoffs in a separate DP/CS/PO column. Special plays can be noted with abbreviations in the small boxes between batters.
As the scoreboard is updated, record the runs scored by each team at the end of each half-inning. Tally up batting and pitching stats like hits, runs, earned runs after the game. More advanced scorekeepers may also calculate WHIP, ERA, batting average and other advanced metrics.
There are a few tips for effectively using a baseball scorecard:
Have multiple writing utensils on hand like pencils, pens and highlighters to clearly mark balls/strikes vs. outcomes.
Leave space between batters/pitchers so stats are easy to tally later. Don’t cram.
Abbreviate player names if needed but make them legible.
Note defensive switches so you know who was playing where for each half-inning.
Date and label the scorecard clearly in case you want to reference stats later.
Practice scorekeeping alongside televised games to get comfortable with the flow.
Don’t get too far behind – estimate pitches if needed but stay engaged in the action.
Review box scores after for any stats you may have missed in real time.
With regular use, keeping scorecards becomes second nature. It deepens appreciation for the game by focusing attention on every play. Fans can look back with pride at a scorecard memento from an exciting matchup. Whether you’re at the ballpark or watching from home, scorecards are a fun tradition that enhances the baseball experience.
