QUOTE (bear_brian @ Jan 27, 2016 -> 12:45 PM)
If the shortstop with great range gets to the ball in the hole, makes the throw to first and throws it away, the batter winds up on second base. If that ball is not fielded, the batter is only on first. That errant throw DOES have a potential effect on the inning, on the pitcher and possibly on the outcome of the game. Ask the Sox pitchers when Jose Valentine played SS.
Not all bad throws result in the batter getting to second. Just say'in.