Expert: Andrew Senger - 3/23/2010

Question
I have a son playing high school baseball.  He was used as a pinch runner twice in the last game.  Both times on-base he reached home plate.  However, the boy he ran for was credited with the hit and both runs scored.  I am wondering if the pinch runner should have been given credit for the runs scored.  Also, if he pinch runs, does that mean he can not enter the game as a fielder or batter?  Thanks

Answer
Debi,

I am unable to answer the scorebook question, as I have no training in completing an official scorebook. However, through a quick glance of the High School rules, I was unable to find anything that stated a Pinch Runner's actions are attributed to the original batter's record.

As for your second question, it depends on whether he was a "pinch runner" or a "courtesy runner." If he was a pinch runner (he ran for someone other than the catcher or pitcher or wasn't brought in as a courtesy runner) and then removed after he completed running, then he would not be allowed to re-enter the game at all.

Judging from your second sentence (He was used as a pinch runner twice in the last game.), it's my belief that he was a courtesy runner for the catcher or pitcher. In this instance, he would be allowed to enter the game. Once he does that, he would not be able to be the courtesy runner again.