pop fly
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A batted baseball that goes a short distance into the air, typically high and easy to catch, often resulting in an out. It is a specific type of fly ball.
Usage
A "pop fly" is a term used almost exclusively in baseball and softball. It describes a ball hit with a high, arcing trajectory but without significant distance, usually staying within the infield or shallow outfield. It is considered an easy play for a fielder.
Examples
- The batter hit a weak pop fly to the shortstop, who caught it for the first out.
- With the bases loaded, the hitter could only manage a pop fly to the second baseman.
- The catcher lost the pop fly in the sun, allowing the runners to advance.
Advanced Usage
- "Infield pop fly" or "infield pop": A pop fly that is hit high enough for an infielder to catch it easily. In some leagues, an "infield fly rule" exists to prevent fielders from intentionally dropping such a ball to create a force-out double play.
- The umpire called the infield fly rule as soon as the batter hit the pop fly to third base.
Variants and Related Words
- Pop-up (noun): A common synonym for "pop fly," especially in casual usage.
- He hit a routine pop-up to left field.
- Fly ball (noun): The general category for any ball hit high into the air. A "pop fly" is a specific, short type of fly ball.
- Can of corn (noun, idiom): A very easy-to-catch fly ball, often in the outfield. This is a more colorful, idiomatic synonym for an easy pop fly or fly ball.
- The center fielder camped under the can of corn for an easy out.
Synonyms
- Pop-up
- Infield fly (when applicable)
- Short fly ball
Antonyms
- Line drive
- Ground ball
- Home run
- Deep fly ball