bullpen

British  

/ ˈbʊlˌpɛn /

noun

1. informal a large cell where prisoners are confined together temporarily

2. baseball a part of a baseball field where relief pitchers warm up

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Explanation

The bullpen is the small area on a baseball field where pitchers warm up, throwing practice pitches to a catcher. The bullpen is often situated in the foul zone along the side of the field. In a professional baseball game, there is always at least one relief pitcher getting ready to replace the starting pitcher. These backup pitchers practice in the bullpen, keeping their throwing arms warmed up and ready. Sometimes the people inside the bullpen are also referred to as "the bullpen." Additionally, people who are confined together in a prison or cell are often said to be in a bullpen.

Example Sentences

Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal became the first major-league player to undergo NanoNeedle Scope 2.0 surgery, throwing a bullpen session under two weeks later.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 26, 2026

In the Knights’ first two playoff victories over Anaheim Canyon and Oaks Christian, she has been called out of the bullpen to pitch exceptionally well in relief.

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026

The Dodgers once again struggle to generate consistent offense and their bullpen implodes in a 9-3 loss to the rival San Francisco Giants.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

“Going to the bullpen has been a harbinger of danger for the Angels,” Randazzo told viewers.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

Gionfriddo, charging from left field to the edge of the bullpen, reached behind the fence and robbed DiMaggio of his sure home run and a tied game.

From "In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson" by Bette Bao Lord

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