curve ball

noun

1. baseball a ball pitched in a curving path so as to make it more difficult to hit
2. informal.
   something deceptive

   his wholesome image was a curve ball thrown to deceive the public

Example Sentences

But Bravo came into the fourth season appreciating the relief his character would get from the scrapped wedding and the other curve balls that knocked Gabriel off course.

From Los Angeles Times

Connecting on a hanging curve ball, he sent his homer over the wall in left field to set off a wild celebration on the field and in the stands of Classic Park.

From Seattle Times

Her first album, Messy, was nominated for a Mercury prize - which she describes as "a pure curve ball".

From BBC

Even before U.S. markets kick off on Monday, China's ongoing property bust threw another curve ball at stocks markets there.

From Reuters

No doubt, the renewed selloff throws a curve ball at bond investors, who have been disappointed so far after last year's record 13% losses.

From Reuters