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

Noun

1. a short high fly ball