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Pinch hit
01
a hit by a backup batter in baseball
What is a "pinch hit"?
A pinch hit in baseball or softball happens when a player replaces another batter in the lineup, usually to give the team a better chance to get a hit. This often occurs in important situations, such as when the team needs a strong hitter to try to get on base or score a run. The player who pinch hits is usually someone not currently in the game, and after their at-bat, the original batter does not return. Pinch hitting is a strategy used to improve the team's chances of success in specific moments during the game.
Examples
The coach called for a pinch hit to shake things up in the lineup.
He delivered a crucial pinch hit when the team needed it most.
to pinch hit
01
to step in and take someone else's place, especially in an important or unexpected situation
Examples
When the professor got sick, his assistant had to pinch hit and give the lecture.
She was n’t supposed to speak, but she had to pinch hit for her absent colleague.
