How many hits does a pitcher...

[JonWard]

have to give up before you say he "scattered" them. I have a good friend who derides anybody else in his team's division.

Yesterday, he said an opposing pitcher "scattered 4 hits over 7 innings." I called him out on revealing his bias.

I think the term has derogatory connotation in that the pitcher wasn't that good or didn't have his best stuff.

It is often used when the best pitcher in a match-up loses a game the other pitcher scattered 7 hits but won anyway.

So, how many does it take?

[Vercingetorix]

There's nothing negative about the term "scattered" at all, IMHO. It means the pitcher did well -- he gave up some hits, but didn't let the other team string them much together.

Besides, four hits in seven innings is very good. I'd take that every time out.

[JonWard]

Originally Posted by Vercingetorix

Besides, four hits in seven innings is very good. I'd take that every time out.

I agree. I just don't think my friend would have used the term if he were talking about his own team.

I could be too picky though, hence the poll. Thanks for your feedback.

[Business]

Originally Posted by Vercingetorix

There's nothing negative about the term "scattered" at all, IMHO. It means the pitcher did well -- he gave up some hits, but didn't let the other team string them much together.

Besides, four hits in seven innings is very good. I'd take that every time out.

This is exactly right. They got some hits but never put anything together. Basically saying, in a positive sence, he gave up some hits but bared down when needed.

Also saying scattered refering to 4 hits doesn't sound right. It needs to be 6-7 plus to be scattered.

[volfanbill]

i don't think the number necessarily matters. i guess i'll say 3 and above, assuming they weren't all in the 4th inning or whatever. just that he didn't give up any runs due to the hits.