What Does SU Mean in Baseball? Understanding This and Other Key Baseball Terms

Introduction

Baseball is filled with unique abbreviations and terminology that can be confusing, especially for new fans. One such term is "SU", which stands for setup pitcher in baseball. This role is crucial in bullpen strategy, as a setup pitcher bridges the gap between the starting pitcher and the closer in a game.

Along with explaining what SU means in baseball, we will also cover:

• What does crooked number mean in baseball?

• What is a 6-4-3 double play in baseball?

These terms are vital to understanding the game and the strategies teams use to secure victories. At The Base Blasters, we aim to break down these concepts in an easy-to-read and informative way, helping fans and players gain deeper insights into baseball.

 

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What Does SU Mean in Baseball?

In baseball, SU stands for setup pitcher or setup man. This is a relief pitcher who typically enters the game in the 8th inning to set the stage for the closer, who finishes the game in the 9th inning.

1. Role of a Setup Pitcher (SU)

• The setup pitcher’s job is to maintain the team’s lead before the closer comes in.

• They are often among the best relief pitchers on the team but do not receive the same attention as closers.

• Setup pitchers typically have high strikeout rates and can handle high-pressure situations.

2. Differences Between a Setup Pitcher and a Closer

Feature	Setup Pitcher (SU)	Closer
When They Pitch	Usually in the 8th inning	Usually in the 9th inning
Objective	Maintain the lead and set up for the closer	Secure the final outs to earn a save
Pressure Level	High-pressure but not as much as a closer	Highest-pressure role in the bullpen

3. Famous Setup Pitchers in MLB History

While closers often get the spotlight, setup pitchers are crucial to a team’s success. Some notable setup pitchers include:

• Andrew Miller – Key setup man for the Cleveland Guardians during their 2016 playoff run.

• Tyler Matzek – Played a crucial role in the Atlanta Braves’ bullpen during their 2021 World Series-winning season.

• Dellin Betances – Former New York Yankees setup man known for his dominance in the 8th inning.

Teams with strong setup pitchers often have better bullpen depth, making them more competitive in close games.

 

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What Does Crooked Number Mean in Baseball?

The term "crooked number" in baseball refers to an inning in which a team scores two or more runs. Since 1 looks straight on a scoreboard whole numbers like 2, 3, 4, etc., are not, a "crooked number" means multiple runs were scored in an inning.

1. Why is a Crooked Number Important?

• Scoring multiple runs in an inning puts pressure on the opposing team.

• Teams that consistently put up crooked numbers are more likely to win.

• A "big inning" with many runs can change the momentum of the game.

2. Examples of Crooked Numbers in a Game

• If a team scores 1 run in the 2nd inning and 4 runs in the 5th inning, the crooked number refers to the 4 runs in the 5th.

• A team trailing 3-1 might need to put up a crooked number in an inning to come back.

3. Strategies to Score a Crooked Number

• Timely hitting – Teams need to get runners on base and drive them in.

• Capitalizing on errors – Defensive mistakes by the opponent can lead to big innings.

• Hitting with runners in scoring position (RISP) – The best teams excel at driving in runs when they have runners in scoring position (second or third base).

Coaches often emphasize avoiding giving up crooked numbers as part of pitching strategy, while offensive teams aim to score them.

 

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What is a 6-4-3 Double Play in Baseball?

A 6-4-3 double play is one of the most common types of double plays in baseball. It refers to the defensive sequence where:

• The shortstop (position 6) fields the ball

• Throws it to the second baseman (position 4) for one out

• The second baseman throws it to the first baseman (position 3) for the second out

1. Breaking Down the Numbers in a 6-4-3 Double Play

• In baseball’s numbering system, each defensive position has a number:

  • 1 – Pitcher

  • 2 – Catcher

  • 3 – First baseman

  • 4 – Second baseman

  • 5 – Third baseman

  • 6 – Shortstop

  • 7 – Left fielder

  • 8 – Center fielder

  • 9 – Right fielder

• A 6-4-3 double play involves the shortstop (6), second baseman (4), and first baseman (3).

2. How a 6-4-3 Double Play Happens

1. The batter hits a ground ball to the shortstop.

2. The shortstop fields it cleanly and throws to the second baseman to force out the runner coming from first.

3. The second baseman quickly transfers the ball and throws to first base to get the batter out.

3. Why is a 6-4-3 Double Play Important?

• It is a pitcher’s best friend, as it eliminates two runners in one play.

• It is one of the most efficient ways for a team to get out of an inning with minimal damage.

• Middle infielders (shortstops and second basemen) must have quick hands and strong accuracy to execute it properly.

4. Other Types of Common Double Plays

Type of Double Play	Positions Involved
4-6-3 Double Play	Second baseman → Shortstop → First baseman
5-4-3 Double Play	Third baseman → Second baseman → First baseman
3-6-1 Double Play	First baseman → Shortstop → Pitcher

The 6-4-3 double play is a staple in baseball, making defensive teamwork and quick reflexes crucial for infielders.

 

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Conclusion

Understanding baseball terminology helps fans and players follow the game more closely. The term SU refers to a setup pitcher, a key part of a team’s bullpen strategy. A crooked number is an inning where a team scores multiple runs, often shifting momentum. A 6-4-3 double play is one of the most effective ways for a team to escape a tough inning by turning two outs quickly.

At The Base Blasters, we aim to make baseball concepts easy to understand and engaging for fans of all levels. Whether you’re new to the game or a longtime fan, knowing these terms will enhance your baseball experience.