relief pitcher

American  

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.

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relief pitcher British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of relief pitcher

First recorded in 1945–50

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

relief pitcher

One thing is certain — Mets relief pitcher Jefry Yan got everyone’s attention with his high-flying, post-strikeout celebration during his MLB debut on Wednesday in Cleveland against the Guardians.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 6, 2026

On Tuesday, the Mets lost when combustible relief pitcher Devin Williams fell apart again, allowing Minnesota a go-ahead run and walking in a fifth run for kicks.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 22, 2026

One month into the high school baseball season, it’s clear that junior third baseman and relief pitcher Troy Randall of Corona Santiago is headed to standout status.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 27, 2026

Or, if that metaphor doesn’t appeal to you, how about a late-inning relief pitcher warming up in the bullpen?

From Salon ● Jan. 2, 2026

Occasionally Joe went in as relief pitcher, when the game was safe in the "ice box," but the chance he wanted was to pitch against the New Yorks at St. Louis.

From Baseball Joe in the Big League or, A Young Pitcher's Hardest Struggles by Lester Chadwick

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Related Words

• bullpen
• reliever
• stopper

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