Why the shortstop is 6
Every position has a number, 1 to 9. It's how plays get their names — like the famous 6-4-3.
The rule: Pitcher 1, catcher 2, around the infield 3-4-5-6, across the outfield 7-8-9.
Scorekeeper code
Every position has a number.
Pitcher 1, catcher 2, first base 3, second base 4, third base 5, shortstop 6. Then the outfield, left to right: 7, 8, 9. Coaches and scorekeepers use the numbers as shorthand for who touched the ball.
Wait — 6?
The shortstop got the leftover number.
First, second and third base got 3, 4 and 5. In early baseball the shortstop was a rover who joined the infield later — so they got the next number in line: 6. It's history, not geography.
Plays get names
A 6-4-3 double play, spelled out.
Shortstop (6) throws to the second baseman (4), who throws to the first baseman (3). Two outs on one ground ball. When you hear numbers like that, just follow the ball.
Turn your own 6-4.
Runner on first, sharp grounder to you at shortstop. Start the play the scorekeeper writes as 6-4. Tap where the throw goes.