Definition

1. Noun:
   • A pitch in baseball intentionally thrown at or near the batter's head: A "beanball" is a dangerous and unsportsmanlike act where the pitcher aims the ball at the batter's head, often as an act of retaliation or intimidation.

Usage

• A "beanball" is a specific term used in the context of baseball. It describes an illegal and highly dangerous pitch. The term is often used in sports reporting and discussions about player conduct and safety.
• It is considered a serious offense and can result in the pitcher's ejection from the game, fines, or suspensions.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The pitcher was ejected from the game for throwing a beanball.
  • Throwing a beanball is a reckless and unacceptable part of the game.

Advanced Usage

• "to throw a beanball": This is the standard verb phrase used with this noun.
  • The manager accused the opposing pitcher of trying to throw a beanball at his star player.

Variants and Related Words

• Bean (verb, slang): To hit someone on the head, especially with a thrown object like a baseball. This is the informal root of the term "beanball."
• Brushback pitch: A related but distinct term for a pitch thrown inside to move the batter away from home plate, not necessarily at the head. A beanball is a more extreme and malicious version.

Synonyms

• Purpose pitch: A broader term for any pitch thrown with the intent to hit the batter, which may include a beanball.
• Headhunter (slang): A colloquial and derogatory term for a pitcher known for throwing beanballs.

Related Idioms/Phrases

• "to have a beanball war": Refers to a situation where pitchers from both teams retaliate by throwing at batters, leading to a series of dangerous pitches and often bench-clearing brawls.
  • The game turned ugly with a beanball war in the late innings.

Noun

1. a baseball deliberately thrown at the batter's head