What Does 45s Mean in Baseball? A Deep Dive into the Term and Other Key Baseball Concepts

Introduction

Baseball is a game with a rich history, full of unique terminology that can sometimes confuse newcomers. One such term is “45s”, which can have multiple meanings depending on the context. While it is most commonly associated with the Houston Colt .45s, an early Major League Baseball (MLB) team, some also use it in reference to pitching speed, jersey numbers, or other aspects of the game.

In addition to exploring what 45s means in baseball, we will also cover two other key baseball terms:

• What does a passed ball mean in baseball?
• What does BP mean in baseball?

These terms are essential for understanding the intricacies of baseball, especially for players, coaches, and dedicated fans.

At The Base Blasters, our goal is to break down these concepts in a way that is easy to understand and informative, helping you develop a deeper appreciation for the game.

What Does 45s Mean in Baseball?

The most well-known association of the term “45s” in baseball is with the Houston Colt .45s, which was the original name of the Houston Astros before the team rebranded in 1965. However, it can also have other meanings in baseball, including references to pitching speed and jersey numbers.

1. The Houston Colt .45s (1962-1964)

• The Houston Colt .45s were an MLB expansion team that began playing in 1962.
• The name “Colt .45s” was inspired by the famous Colt .45 revolver, a gun that was widely used in the Old West.
• The team played under this name for three seasons before rebranding as the Houston Astros in 1965 when they moved into the Astrodome, the world’s first domed stadium.
• The team’s colors were navy blue and orange, and their uniforms featured a logo with a smoking revolver.

Why Did the Houston Colt .45s Change Their Name?

• The name change was largely influenced by the construction of the Astrodome, which was considered an architectural marvel at the time.
• The team wanted a name that reflected Houston’s growing reputation as a center for space exploration, leading to the new name “Astros.”
• Colt Firearms, the manufacturer of the Colt .45 revolver, reportedly objected to the continued use of their name for a professional sports team.

Today, many baseball fans still remember the Houston Colt .45s as a part of baseball history, and collectors seek out old Colt .45s memorabilia as a tribute to the team’s early years.

2. Pitching Speed Reference

• Some baseball players and coaches informally refer to a pitcher throwing around 45 miles per hour (mph) as “throwing 45s.”
• This speed is typically seen in youth baseball leagues, where younger pitchers are still developing their velocity.
• In professional baseball, pitching speeds are much higher, usually ranging from 85 to 100 mph, making this usage of “45s” uncommon in higher-level play.

3. Jersey Number 45 in Baseball

• Several famous baseball players have worn jersey number 45 throughout history.
• Notable players who wore this number include Bob Gibson, a Hall of Fame pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals, and Pedro Martínez, another legendary pitcher.
• In some cases, teams have retired number 45 to honor players who made significant contributions to the franchise.

What Does a Passed Ball Mean in Baseball?

A passed ball occurs when a catcher fails to handle a pitch that they should have caught, allowing a baserunner to advance.

Key Characteristics of a Passed Ball

• The pitcher throws a legal pitch, but the catcher mishandles it, allowing the ball to get past them.
• The official scorer determines whether it was a passed ball (a mistake by the catcher) or a wild pitch (a mistake by the pitcher).
• If a runner is on base, they may advance to the next base after a passed ball.

Difference Between a Passed Ball and a Wild Pitch

Impact of Passed Balls on the Game

• Passed balls can be costly, as they may allow runners to score in tight games.
• Catchers with strong defensive skills are less likely to allow passed balls, making them valuable assets to a team.
• Some pitchers rely on breaking balls and off-speed pitches, which are harder to catch, increasing the risk of passed balls.

A passed ball can turn the tide of a game, making it a crucial stat for both catchers and pitchers to monitor.

What Does BP Mean in Baseball?

The abbreviation BP has multiple meanings in baseball, depending on the context.

1. Batting Practice (BP)

• The most common meaning of BP in baseball is batting practice.
• Players take turns hitting balls from a coach or pitching machine to warm up before games.
• Batting practice helps players improve their timing, mechanics, and power before facing live pitching.

2. Bullpen (BP)

• BP can also stand for the bullpen, the area where relief pitchers warm up before entering a game.
• A bullpen session is a practice routine where pitchers throw in preparation for future appearances.
• Teams rely on their bullpen pitchers to close out games, making bullpen management an essential part of baseball strategy.

3. Blood Pressure (BP) – Slang Term for Stress in Baseball

• Fans and players sometimes use BP to refer to “blood pressure”, jokingly referencing the stress that comes with watching or playing in a high-stakes game.
• Close games, extra innings, and playoff matchups often lead to BP levels rising for both players and spectators.

Why BP Matters in Baseball

• Batting practice ensures hitters are warmed up and ready for in-game action.
• Bullpens play a crucial role in managing pitchers and maintaining a strong defense.
• Blood pressure (BP) jokes highlight the emotional intensity of baseball, making it one of the most exciting sports to watch.

Conclusion

Understanding baseball terminology enhances your appreciation of the sport. The term “45s” has historical significance due to the Houston Colt .45s, but it can also refer to pitching speed and jersey numbers.

In addition, knowing what a passed ball means helps you understand defensive mistakes, and BP in baseball has various meanings, from batting practice to bullpen sessions.

At The Base Blasters, we aim to break down baseball concepts in a way that is easy to understand, informative, and engaging. Whether you are a casual fan or a dedicated player, learning these terms will help deepen your knowledge of the game.