What is Baltimore Chop in Baseball?

The term “Baltimore Chop” refers to a hit in baseball where the ball is struck so sharply into the ground near home plate that it bounces high up into the air. The high bounce gives the batter more time to run towards first base, often beating the throw and thus safely reaching base. The Baltimore Chop is not a common occurrence but can be a strategic move for a batter, especially those with speed.

The origin of this term dates back to the 1890s with the Baltimore Orioles, a team known for their innovative, and sometimes unorthodox, playing style. They popularized this technique to take advantage of their speed and the hard infield surfaces common in that era.

The Baltimore Chop in Play

To see the Baltimore Chop in action, imagine a scenario where the batter smacks a fast pitch straight down into the dirt in front of home plate. The ball then rockets up high, giving the batter extra time to sprint towards first base. While the infielders wait helplessly for the ball to come down, the batter often reaches the base safely.

A commentator during a game might say, “And that’s a perfect Baltimore Chop right there – he’s used the Orioles’ old trick to get on base!” This usage of the term in a sentence highlights its strategic application in the game, turning a seemingly simple ground ball into a challenging play for the defense.

The Baltimore Chop remains a clever tactic within baseball, a nod to the sport’s innovative past and a reminder of how players can use the field to their advantage. It’s a term that has persisted through the years, capturing a unique aspect of baseball strategy and gameplay.