brushback

[ bruhsh-bak ]

noun

, Baseball.

1. a fastball thrown high and inside to force the batter away from the plate, often to intimidate.

Word History and Origins

Origin of brushback¹

First recorded in 1950–55; noun use of verb phrase brush back

Example Sentences

Using a baseball tactic that former college ballplayer Gavin Newsom should understand, the Legislature has started throwing brushback pitches at the lame duck governor.

From Los Angeles Times

That was a blazing McGuire brushback pitch.

From Los Angeles Times

Newsom, of course, also has many potential brushback pitches in his arsenal.

From Los Angeles Times

Learn from the brushback pitches.

From Los Angeles Times

Other times they need the fastball down the middle or maybe under the chin — they might need the brushback.”

From Los Angeles Times