relief pitcher

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.

relief pitcher

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of relief pitcher¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Related Words

• bullpen 
• reliever 
• stopper