relief pitcher

NOUN

pitcher who takes place of starter

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bullpen reliever stopper

WEAK

closer fireman inner reliever long reliever middle reliever short reliever

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.

Or, if that metaphor doesn’t appeal to you, how about a late-inning relief pitcher warming up in the bullpen?

From Salon • Jan. 2, 2026

Díaz, 31, was the consensus best relief pitcher in this year’s free-agent class.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 9, 2025

The San Diego Padres named longtime major league relief pitcher Craig Stammen their new manager on Thursday, opting to give him a first managerial post.

From Barron's • Nov. 6, 2025

Pogacar is loose, more like a free-spirited relief pitcher.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 10, 2025

"Do you want to call for a relief pitcher, Prescott?"

From The High School Pitcher Dick & Co. on the Gridley Diamond by Hancock, H. Irving (Harrie Irving)