Americans made up the game of baseball in the 1800s. Many Americans enjoy watching or playing baseball in their spare time. It takes a lot of practice to scores the most runs wins. Batters try to move around the bases and score runs. Batters can get on base in a number of ways, most often by a hit or a walk. Fielders try to put players on the opposing team out. Fielders put players out by catching balls hit in the air or by throwing the ball to a base before the runner gets there. Pitchers try to put batters out by throwing pitches the batters cannot hit.

      A manager or coach directs a team’s play. Umpires make sure the game is played according to the rules. They decide if base runners are safe or out. An umpire at home plate decides whether a pitch is a strike or a ball.