Scenario: The first batter of an inning strikes out. The second hits an inside-the-park home run. The third hits a double. The pitcher receives a signal to intentionally walk the fourth batter and, reluctanly, does so. The fifth batter connects for a 2-run triple. The sixth and seventh batters are struck out, which strands the runner at third.

As the official scorer, how many of the 3 runs do you charge as earned runs against the pitcher?

A – 0.
B – 1.
C – 2.
D – 3.

Highlight the text below to reveal the answer:

Answer: D – 3.

Rule 10.16 states:
… For the purpose of determining earned runs, an intentional base on balls, regardless of the circumstances, shall be construed in exactly the same manner as any other base on balls …