minor leaguer

American  

[mahy-ner lee-ger] / ˈmaɪ nər ˈli gər /

Or minor-leaguer

noun

1. Sports. a player in a minor league.

2. Informal. a person whose skill or ability is suited only to a minor role in an enterprise or endeavor.

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Etymology

Origin of minor leaguer

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85; minor league + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Copley stopped 14 shots, but Los Angeles‘ first two games have done nothing for fans’ confidence in the team’s defense and its unlikely goalie tandem of 36-year-old Cam Talbot and Copley, a longtime minor leaguer.

From Washington Times • Oct. 15, 2023

Also joining Phillips on the initial Capitals roster is fellow longtime minor leaguer Lucas Johansen, a 2016 first-round pick and one-time top prospect.

From Washington Times • Oct. 10, 2023

The 31-year-old Lorenzen was an All-Star this season for Detroit before the Phillies acquired him at the trade deadline for a minor leaguer.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 9, 2023

Velázquez has impressive numbers at triple-A and likely will get an opportunity with Kansas City to determine whether he is a bona fide big league hitter or a four-A career minor leaguer.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 1, 2023

Sunday’s lineup included veteran minor leaguer first baseman/outfielder Trey Cabbage, who has struck out 17 times in his first 34 major league at-bats.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 30, 2023