Intentional walks are a strategic defensive maneuver , commonly done to bypass one hitter for one the defensive team believes is less likely to initiate a run-scoring play ( e.g. , a home run , sacrifice fly , or RBI base hit ) . Teams also commonly use intentional walks to set up a double play or force out situation for the next batter .
Intentional walks are a strategic defensive maneuver , usually done to bypass one hitter for one the defensive team believes is less likely to initiate a run-scoring play ( e.g. , a home run , sacrifice fly , or RBI base hit ) , or to set up a double play or force out situation for the next batter .