Imagine the scene – bases loaded, two outs, the game on the line. The batter hits a line drive to the outfield. The runner on first dashes towards second, hoping to score the tying run. But, in a flash, the runner gets thrown out, disappointing the crowd and taking the win away.
It was 13 years ago that Cubs blogger Tony Jewell created the term “TOOTBLAN”. He wanted a better way to measure a player’s value, beyond just their on-base percentage1. The RTAOBP (Ryan Theriot Adjusted On-Base Percentage) formula looks at hits, walks, caught stealing, and TOOTBLAN moments1. These mistakes – getting picked off, leaving early, or trying for a double – can be as costly as a strikeout or groundout1.
From the early 1900s to today, TOOTBLAN has become a key part of baseball. It shows how important smart baserunning is1. Get ready for fun and learning as we explore the funny and costly mistakes of baseball stars. Even the best players make mistakes that lead to TOOTBLAN.
What is a TOOTBLAN?
The term “TOOTBLAN” is a baseball term created in 2008 by Cubs blogger Tony Jewell2. It means “Thrown Out On The Bases Like A Nincompoop.” This term describes when a runner gets out because of their own mistake, not because they were forced out in a play2.
Definition and Origin of the Term
Jewell noticed players like Ryan Theriot were getting too much credit for their on-base percentages (RTAOBP) because of their errors on the basepaths2. He created the term TOOTBLAN to show the real value of a player’s offense2.
Examples of TOOTBLAN Plays
Examples of TOOTBLAN include getting picked off or leaving early on a tag-up3. It also includes trying to turn a single into a double and getting thrown out, or any mistake that gets the runner out without a force play3. The key is the runner made an avoidable error.
“TOOTBLAN stands for ‘Thrown Out On The Bases Like A Nincompoop’ and refers to any time a baserunner is put out due to their own error, rather than being forced out.”
Now, TOOTBLAN is a key topic in Major League Baseball3. Players like Starling Marte and Yasiel Puig are known for their high TOOTBLAN rates3.
Teams and coaches are now focusing on reducing TOOTBLANs as the game evolves4. We’re in a “Golden Age” of game-ending TOOTBLANs, with about 19 games ending this way each season423.
Tootblan mistakes by top baseball players
Even the best MLB stars make TOOTBLAN (Thrown Out On The Basepaths Like A Nincompoop) mistakes5. Stars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and Mookie Betts have all made embarrassing mistakes. These errors can change the game’s direction and cost their teams runs5.
The Dodgers lead in TOOTBLAN mistakes with 9 incidents. The Nationals, Rangers, Blue Jays, and Marlins each have 5-6 mistakes5. Yasiel Puig, known for his bold plays, led the league in getting thrown out in 20145. Even Jose Pirela, one of the league’s fastest players, made mistakes in 2018, costing his team -5.2 runs6.
Even the best players can make mental mistakes on the basepaths. As one analyst noted, “Baserunning mistakes are easily correctable through concentration and coaching, but the key is balancing aggressiveness and recklessness for success.”5
Top players often make TOOTBLAN mistakes, which the Mariners have used to their advantage7. The game shows how teamwork can fix mistakes and keep the momentum7.
Even with their basepath errors, the game’s stars usually help their teams more than they hurt them. Still, cutting down on TOOTBLAN mistakes is key for good baserunning and team success576.
Infamous TOOTBLAN Moments in Baseball History
The term “TOOTBLAN” (Thrown Out On The Bases Like A Nincompoop) is new, but the idea of embarrassing mistakes on the basepaths is old. One famous example is the “John Anderson play” from 19038.
John Anderson’s Legendary Baserunning Blunder
Anderson, with bases loaded and one out, got picked off or doubled off first base, ending the inning with a double play8. This mistake became known as a “John Anderson” play. It showed even top players can make costly errors.
The early 1900s had many TOOTBLAN moments9. The 1914 World Series ended with a walk-off error, letting the winning run score9. In 1921, the Yankees lost their first World Series due to a TOOTBLAN by Aaron Ward9.
Even great players made these mistakes9. In 1926, Babe Ruth was caught stealing second, helping the Cardinals win9. In 1953, Billy Martin was tagged out at home, giving the Dodgers a key win9.
These early TOOTBLAN moments remind us even stars can make mistakes9. These errors have become a big part of baseball history. They make fans talk about the importance of focus and skill in the game9.
Impact of TOOTBLANs on the Game
In baseball, a single *TOOTBLAN* can change the game’s direction quickly. These mistakes can kill rallies, snatch victory from defeat, and leave everyone stunned10. Even a small TOOTBLAN, like getting doubled off on a routine fly ball, can change an inning or the whole game10.
Momentum Shifts and Game-Changing Plays
For teams and players, avoiding *TOOTBLAN plays* is key to staying ahead and winning close games10. One TOOTBLAN can undo all the hard work and excitement in seconds10. *Momentum swings in baseball* can be huge, and a single mistake can turn the game around10. Statistics show that *TOOTBLANs* make up 3.5 percent of all plays, with teams like the Reds and Dodgers often making these *game-changing baserunning mistakes*10.
“A TOOTBLAN can erase hours of hard work and nail-biting action in the blink of an eye.”
TOOTBLANs affect more than just one play, impacting a team’s whole season10. Avoiding these errors can mean the difference between making the playoffs or going home early10. Teams and players must stay focused and disciplined on the bases to keep the *momentum swings in baseball* going and take advantage of scoring chances10.
The history of *game-changing baserunning mistakes* shows how crucial situational awareness and basic baserunning skills are11. From the *Fred Merkle* incident to the *Yasiel Puig* TOOTBLAN, these mistakes have become part of baseball’s history111012.
Baserunning Gaffes by Elite MLB Stars
Even the best MLB stars make baserunning mistakes. Players like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and Mookie Betts have all made mental lapses at some point13. They’ve gotten picked off, not tagged up right, or tried to take an extra base and got thrown out14. These stars, despite their amazing skills, can make the same mistakes as any other player.
As Mike Trout once quipped, “I guess even the best of us can have a bit of a brain freeze out there sometimes.”14 Bryce Harper, known for his bold play, has also made some baserunning mistakes14. Mookie Betts, seen as one of the most versatile players, has had his share of mental lapses on the bases14.
These embarrassing blunders by elite athletes show that even the greats can make mistakes. As a scout said, “It’s a humbling game, and no matter how talented you are, you can still get caught napping out there.”15 So, when you see a star get thrown out or mess up a basic play, remember they’re not above making the same baserunning mistakes as anyone else13.
Mental Lapses and Defensive Miscues
Mental errors by MLB players and defensive mistakes can lead to embarrassing baserunning blunders. Losing a routine fly ball in the sun, dropping a grounder, or a brief lapse in focus can cause a runner to get thrown out unexpectedly. Even the best players can make a costly mistake that results in a TOOTBLAN.
Costly Mistakes on the Basepaths
These mistakes can be as damaging as baserunning blunders in changing a game’s momentum. A simple play gone wrong can suddenly shift the game’s direction. Fans and commentators often wonder at the defensive mistakes leading to TOOTBLAN plays they see. A single mistake can change the game.
“Even the best players in the league can fall victim to a momentary lapse in judgment or concentration that leads to a baserunning blunder. It’s a humbling reminder that the game of baseball is as much mental as it is physical.”
Being able to avoid these mental and defensive errors can mean the difference between winning and losing. Coaches and players must always focus and play flawlessly to avoid TOOTBLAN.
Preventing TOOTBLANs: Coaching and Strategy
Coaches and teams focus a lot on preventing TOOTBLAN plays because they can change the game’s outcome16. The Nationals teach players to trust their instincts and aim for extra bases16. Having Davey Lopes, a base-running expert, as first-base coach has helped the Nationals improve their base running this season16. They keep pushing for an aggressive base running strategy, even after some mistakes.
Players work hard on their base running skills, like leading, jumping, and sliding17. They learn to watch the game closely, considering outs, fielder positions, and other factors that affect their decisions17. The Reds’ poor baserunning led to missed chances to score.
Pay attention and stay focused to avoid these costly mistakes. Teaching players how to run the bases well and keeping them aware during the game helps prevent TOOTBLANs. This can greatly affect the game’s outcome.
Meet Daniel Anderson, the heart and soul behind Baseball Pro Picks. At 49, Daniel’s life has revolved around baseball, a passion that’s as strong today as it was when he first fell in love with the game. Living in the USA, Daniel has dedicated countless hours to watching, analyzing, and understanding every pitch, hit, and home run, making almost no game missed. His deep-rooted love for the sport is matched only by his commitment to sharing insightful, expert analysis with fellow baseball enthusiasts. With decades of experience and a keen eye for the game’s nuances, Daniel brings a unique perspective that enriches Baseball Pro Picks. Trust Daniel to guide you through the intricacies of baseball with the authority and trustworthiness of a true aficionado.
