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ghost runner

American  
[gohst ruhn-er] / ˈgoʊst ˌrʌn ər /

Etymology

Origin of ghost runner

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Realmuto’s 10th-inning sacrifice fly scoring ghost runner Harrison Bader with the winning run for Philadelphia.

From Los Angeles Times Sep. 16, 2025

Just don’t get me started on the ghost runner at second base in extra innings.

From Los Angeles Times Mar. 7, 2023

The ghost runner: Major League Baseball is adding the extra-inning baserunner to the game on a permanent basis.

From New York Times Feb. 14, 2023

It seemed that that abomination would end this season, but as of last Tuesday, talks to keep the ghost runner have resumed.

From Washington Post Mar. 18, 2022

Also gone, and unlamented, is the ghost runner on second base in extra innings.

From Seattle Times Mar. 10, 2022

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