knuckleballer

[ nuhk-uhl-baw-ler ]

noun

, Baseball.

1. a pitcher who specializes in throwing knuckleballs.

Word History and Origins

Origin of knuckleballer¹

First recorded in 1940–45; knuckleball + -er ¹

Example Sentences

In a Game 6-clinching 8-4 win over the Dodgers, Jackson hit three first-pitch homers off three pitchers — Burt Hooten in the fourth inning, Elias Sosa in the fifth and knuckleballer Charlie Hough in the eighth, his final drive bouncing off the black-painted batter’s eye and into the waiting hands of a fan in center field.

From Los Angeles Times

As Boston celebrated the 20th anniversary of that title team, Damon again put the trophy in the hands of a Wakefield, only this time the knuckleballer’s daughter.

From Seattle Times

Red Sox knuckleballer helped Boston bust its curse to win the World Series title in 2004.

From Seattle Times

The Mets held a moment of silence before the game in honor of Tim Wakefield, the Boston Red Sox and Pittsburgh Pirates knuckleballer who died Sunday of brain cancer at age 57.

From Washington Times

He threw it on the day legendary knuckleballer Tim Wakefield died at age 57.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• ace
• baseball player
• reliever