Definition
Batters faced is simply a count of the number of total plate appearances against a certain pitcher or team. In a perfect game -- with 27 outs -- a pitcher will record 27 batters faced.
Batters faced can often be used as a reference for in-game strategy. A hurler has gone through the opposing lineup once after facing nine batters. After recording 18 batters faced, he becomes poised to take on the opposing lineup a third time. Not surprisingly, pitchers with high batters faced totals are also the ones who throw the most innings.
Batters faced can be determined by counting the total number of plate appearances -- or by adding runs, runners left on base and total outs.
In A Call
"hitters faced," "batters to the plate," "men to the plate"
