relief pitcher

American  

noun

Baseball.

1. a pitcher brought into a game to replace another pitcher, often in a critical situation.

2. a pitcher regularly so used, as opposed to one who regularly starts games.

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relief pitcher British  

noun

1. Also called: reliever.  baseball a pitcher who replaces a side's main pitcher during a game

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Etymology

Origin of relief pitcher

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Relief pitcher Fred Martinez came in with one out in the second inning and ended up allowing no hits while striking out 12 in Cleveland’s 7-0 win over South East.

From Los Angeles Times • May 17, 2023

Relief pitcher Penn Murfee, on the injured list with right elbow inflammation, is rehabbing at the Mariners complex in Peoria, Arizona.

From Seattle Times • May 12, 2023

Relief pitcher Sean Doolittle, a member of the 2019 championship team on his second stint with the franchise, called the news surprising but said he doesn’t expect the development to be a distraction.

From Washington Post • Apr. 11, 2022

Relief pitcher Ty Buttrey walked away from baseball last spring, but he returns to the Angels refreshed and ready to be an asset in the bullpen.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 15, 2022

Relief pitcher Burch Smith entered the game for Oakland and had to take over with the bases loaded and no outs in the inning.

From Fox News • Aug. 17, 2021

Related Words

• bullpen
• reliever
• stopper