Someone posted on another board.

[Illinihog]

3 strikeouts = the hat trick
4 = golden sombrero...

I've never heard 3 being called the hat trick.  I've always heard give the guy a white robe.  I always thought that one was humorous.  It's even better if he strikes out swinging all 3 times.  I always enjoyed heckling the visitors when they've struck out a couple of times.

[fusbal11]

The term hat trick has been around longer than the game of baseball has---they just adopted it.

[Kodiak]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think it was when a hockey player scored 3 times in a game.
I would like to know the origin.

[Albert Einswine]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think it was when a hockey player scored 3 times in a game.
I would like to know the origin.

Here you go.  Click  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hat_trick

You can scroll down the page to read about it's application to different sports.

[bythelake]

A hat trick is when a soccer player or hockey player scores 3 goals  in one game.  I had to ask my daughter who played soccer. 

[John Futrall]

A hat trick is when a soccer player or hockey player scores 3 goals  in one game.  I had to ask my daughter who played soccer. 

You are correct....Many times at hockey games, when a player does score 3 goals, the fans in the stands throw their hats onto the ice....

I guess it beats throwing an octopus down there  

[Burnt Orange Sucks]

I thought it meant spinning your hat on your middle finger? 

[Illinihog]

No I knew what it ment for Hockey, I was just saying I had never heard that term used in Baseball.  I've thrown a few hats @ Blues games when Mr. Hull was in his prime.