In each Major League Baseball season, hit by pitches (HBP) are a constant that affects both the performance and health of players. Some players, because of their aggressiveness in standing close to the plate or because of their offensive role, accumulate more hits than others
In recent years, names such as Willson Contreras, Anthony Rizzo and Mark Canha have topped the list of the most hit players in MLB.
Willson Contreras: leader in recent hit-by-pitches
Venezuelan catcher Willson Contreras has been one of the most hit players since his debut in 2016. His aggressive style and willingness to cover the plate has led him to accumulate more than 70 hits in his career, equaling historical records such as Miguel Cabrera in his last years as a professional.
Anthony Rizzo: consistency in pain
First baseman Anthony Rizzo has been hit more than 200 times in his career, making him one of the all-time leaders in this statistic. His closed stance and ability to withstand pitches close to the body have made him a frequent target for opposing pitchers.
Mark Canha: the HBP specialist
During the 2022 season, Mark Canha led MLB in hit by pitches, with more than 28 hits. His tactical approach to getting on base includes not dodging certain pitches, which has sparked debate among fans and analysts as to whether it is strategy or unnecessary risk.
Why do some players get hit by pitches more often?
Factors such as position at the plate, the type of pitches faced, the frequency of at-bats and offensive style directly influence the number of hit by pitches a player receives. Those who seek to extend the count or provoke pitcher errors are often more exposed to this type of play.
Hit by pitches is a statistic that reflects both the courage and strategy of certain players in MLB. Figures such as Contreras, Rizzo and Canha have made this situation part of their identity on the field. Although painful, these impacts can also be key to maintaining their teams’ offensive rhythm.
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