play ball

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But Dukakis didn't play ball, opting instead to purchase a replacement from the academy for $78.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

Current and former officials said that Russia’s increasing reliance on China means Beijing could play a productive role in bringing Putin to any peace deal—if Trump can convince it to play ball, that is.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 13, 2025

And there’s the whole other theme here where it would appear that Adams was coached by Bove to essentially offer: I’ll really play ball on immigration if you’ll dismiss the cases.

From Slate • Feb. 14, 2025

"That helps the whole ecosystem know where it's okay to play ball and where it's not," Farmer told the TV station.

From Salon • Jan. 21, 2025

“They don’t, but if I can play ball for them I know I’ll get in,” Nick said, looking at me.

From "Slam!" by Walter Dean Myers