Mendoza Line

American  

[men-doh-zuh lahyn] / mɛnˈdoʊ zə ˌlaɪn /

Or Mendoza line

noun

Baseball.

1. an unimpressive and disappointing batting average of .200.

   If you’re gonna keep hitting below the Mendoza Line, you’d better learn how to pitch or find another career.

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Etymology

Origin of Mendoza Line

First recorded in 1975–80; named after Mario Mendoza Aizpuru (born 1950), Mexican baseball shortstop whose batting average was consistently around .200

Example Sentences

He will fail to hit above the Mendoza Line this year.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 24, 2022

But some of those Mendoza Line hitters are providing actual value to their teams.

From New York Times • Sep. 24, 2021

New York has stayed patient with Sanchez’s defensive shortcomings because of his potential impact on offense, but excessive passed balls don’t pair so well with an average below the Mendoza Line.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 1, 2018

I'm not opening my Joc Pederson bobblehead unless I'm sure he'll still be a Dodger The fact he's right at the Mendoza Line makes him a prime candidate to get shipped out to OKC.

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2017

Until Albert Pujols pulls himself above the Mendoza Line or at least hits his second home run, I'm going to refrain from passing along any fantasy baseball advice.

From Golf Digest • May 15, 2012