In baseball statistics, a putout (denoted by PO or fly-ball when appropriate) is given to a defensive player who records an out by one of the following methods:
A putout is not recorded for the player who throws a ball to another player to make a putout, they are given an assist instead. There is an exception: When the pitcher records a strikeout, no assist is recorded even though that pitcher threw the ball to the catcher, who was credited with a putout for catching the third strike.
However, determining the relative measure of assists versus putouts is a somewhat daunting task.
A first baseman for example will have significantly more putouts than assists, with many of these putouts being chest high throws from infielders that would be caught by any major league player.
However, putouts for second basemen, third basemen or shortstops are far less likely to occur as a result of a ground ball.
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