Why is it four balls, but only three strikes?

[Jeebo]

Doesn't that give an unfair advantage to the pitcher? Shouldn't it be an even number of each? Four balls and four strikes, or three balls and three strikes?

-- Ron

[Enter stage left]

1. Yeah, and if it goes beyond 4th base, it should count as a 3 point basket...

[Mr.Bill]

2. Well, in a way, you can get more than three strikes.

When you have two strikes, foul balls stop counting as strikes.

They don't keep stats on this, but a few years ago it took a pitcher I think 23 pitches to strike out the Giants' Brandon Belt. He just kept hitting foul balls.

[spike jones]

3. I think players should be able to get a guy out by hitting him with the ball while

he is running between bases, like in the old days.

[MyOwnPeace]

4. Well, now I see why........

you chose the name 'Spike!'

[El Supremo]

5. It is a long story going back at least 180 years.

In the early days the batter was considered a coward if he walked. Foul balls complicate the matter. Basically it is a compromise to even up the playing field.