What is a crooked number in baseball?

In baseball, a "crooked number" refers to a half-inning in which the batting team scores more than one run. The term comes from the fact that when multiple runs are scored in an inning, the score on the scoreboard looks uneven or "crooked."

For example, scoring 2, 3, 4, or more runs in an inning would be considered a crooked number. Crooked numbers are often seen as a positive sign for the batting team, as it typically indicates a successful offensive performance.

Hitting a crooked number also puts pressure on the opposing team's pitching staff and can swing the momentum in favor of the batting team. Teams will often aim to put up crooked numbers early in the game to establish a lead and build confidence.

Overall, crooked numbers play a significant role in determining the outcome of a baseball game, as they reflect the offensive prowess of the teams involved.