relief pitcher

noun

: a baseball pitcher who takes over for another during a game

Examples of relief pitcher in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Phillies lost on a throwing error from relief pitcher Orion Kerkering in the bottom of the 11th inning. Nelson Espinal, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 Oct. 2025 The pair had been seen speaking together as the relief pitcher trudged off the field. Ben Church, CNN Money, 10 Oct. 2025 Former Dodgers relief pitcher Joe Kelly will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before Game 1. Bill Plunkett, Oc Register, 30 Sep. 2025 The Giants used a relief pitcher to start the game before turning to Long, who went four innings. Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 27 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for relief pitcher

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of relief pitcher was in 1884

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Cite this Entry

“Relief pitcher.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relief%20pitcher. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

relief pitcher

noun
: a baseball pitcher who takes over for another during a game

More from Merriam-Webster on relief pitcher

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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