starting pitcher
1 of 1noun/ˈstɑrtɪŋ ˈpɪtʃər/
Forms:starting pitchers
1
the baseball player who begins the game
A starting pitcher is the player in baseball who begins the game by pitching to the opposing team’s batters. Their job is to control the game from the start, often aiming to get as many batters out as possible before handing over to other pitchers. Starting pitchers are usually expected to pitch for several innings, setting the tone for the game and helping their team by limiting the opponent’s scoring opportunities.
- The team's starting pitcher has an impressive fastball.
- The manager relies on the starting pitcher to set the tone of the game.
- The starting pitcher threw seven strong innings.
- She trained hard to become the team's starting pitcher.
- The starting pitcher kept the opposing team scoreless for five innings.