In baseball, an intentional walk occurs when a pitcher deliberately avoids trying to get a batter out by walking him directly to first base without pitching to them. The quote suggests that even if there were no official rule allowing intentional walks, players and managers would find ways around it through subtle maneuvers or indirect strategies. Essentially, the idea is that avoiding certain outcomes often leads to similar results but in more concealed ways.
This statement reflects a broader concept in sports and life: attempts to circumvent rules or avoid direct confrontation can lead to unintended consequences that mirror the original intent. In baseball, this might mean deliberately issuing pitches that are likely to walk a batter without technically granting an intentional walk. This indirect approach preserves some semblance of competition while achieving the same result as an official intentional walk. The quote also highlights how strategic thinking and creativity often come into play when facing strict regulations or limitations.
The quote is attributed to George Brett, a legendary former professional baseball player who played his entire 21-year career with the Kansas City Royals (now known as the Baltimore Orioles for his first season). Known for his exceptional batting skills, Brett was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999. His insights on baseball strategy and game tactics are highly respected within the sport.
