pinch runner

noun

, Baseball.

1. a player sent into a game to replace a base runner.

Other Words From

• pinch running noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pinch runner¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Their best chance was in the second inning when a pinch runner tried to score from second on a ground ball off the glove of first baseman Trevor Sostman.

From Los Angeles Times

Ryan Jeffers was hit by a pitch, Willi Castro reached on a fielder’s choice, and pinch runner Byron Buxton came around from second when Clase dropped a throw from Naylor on a potential game-ending grounder to first by Alex Kirilloff.

From Seattle Times

Kelenic followed with a bloop single that scored Michael Harris II, but pinch runner Luke Williams was thrown out at the plate by Tyler Freeman.

From Seattle Times

After Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh singled with two outs and the bases empty, he was promptly replaced by Julio Rodriguez as a pinch runner.

From Seattle Times

The Pirates then had freshman Jason Janesko come on as a pinch runner.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• runner