Ever wondered about the secret language of baseball? If you want to talk like a true baseball person, get ready to embrace those colorful expressions used in the game. And yes, you might need to curse a bit, just like Pat Murphy, the Milwaukee Brewers’ manager, explained to his boss’ son, Tyler Arnold.
But baseball slang isn’t just about cursing. It’s about creating a unique vocabulary that’s part of the baseball ecosystem. Terms like “Cheese,” “Uncle Charlie,” “Walk-off,” “Golden Sombrero,” and “Platinum Sombrero” fill the baseball dictionary and add a layer of mystique to the game.
However, what if some of these distinctive baseball expressions could be used in everyday life? How out of place would they sound? If you’re a baseball person, you know the feeling.
For example, take the scouting grading system from Branch Rickey. Using terms like “That’s a 70 sandwich” or “That’s a 35 restaurant” might sound bizarre to others, but in baseball, it makes perfect sense.
One peculiar aspect of baseball lingo is the use of specific phrases that wouldn’t make sense anywhere else. For instance, you’d never ask, “How fast was that pitch?” Instead, you’d inquire about the “velo on that pitch,” showcasing your deep knowledge of the game.
But fear not, aspiring baseball aficionados! We’ve compiled a list of 20 tips to help you sound like a seasoned pro in everyday conversations. From “Bang” to “Wraparound,” these unique expressions will set you apart and make you sound like a big leaguer in any setting.
Bang
Everyday meaning: v. – to strike sharply
Baseball meaning: v. – to postpone a game
When worlds collide: “It’s supposed to snow overnight. Do you think they’ll bang school?”
Boat race
Everyday meaning: n. – A race between boats
Baseball meaning: v. – To rout another team by pulling away early
When worlds collide: “We were the same height till middle school, then he just boat-raced me!”
So, whether you’re talking about letting it eat or wearing it, these baseball expressions will make you stand out in any conversation. Embrace the unique vocabulary of baseball and start talking like a pro today!
(Formal dictionary definitions are from the Merriam-Webster website.)
