Definition & Meaning of "(right|) off the bat"

What is the origin of the idiom "off the bat" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom"off the bat" is rooted in baseball terminology. In baseball, when a batter hits the ball, it makes immediate contact with the bat and quickly flies off. This association of swift action and immediate response likely influenced the idiomatic usage of this expression to describe an action that is done without instantly and without any hesitation.