The famous «6-4-3» is how you score a double play: the ball goes from the shortstop (6) to the second baseman (4) to the first baseman (3). Each number is a position, and the sequence tells the play.
The position numbers
Every defensive position has a fixed number: 1 pitcher, 2 catcher, 3 first base, 4 second base, 5 third base, 6 shortstop, 7 left field, 8 center field and 9 right field. With that, any play can be written in numbers.
How plays are read
So a fly ball caught by the center fielder is an «F8»; a grounder to third thrown to first is a «5-3.» The 6-4-3 is the most common double play: the shortstop fields it, the second baseman touches the bag, and they finish at first. Two outs on one play.
FAQ
What position is number 6?
The shortstop.
Is there a 4-6-3?
Yes: the same double play but started by the second baseman, who throws to the shortstop and then to first.
