at 'em ball en · NOUN
Etymology
Because such a ball is hit straight at 'em (at them).
Meanings
-
(slang) A hard-hit batted ball hit straight at a fielder in the air for an out.
If opposing hitters consistently hit balls at -Fielders, the fortunate pitcher is said, to be possessed of an "at 'em ball."
1996, Mike Whiteford, How to Talk Baseball, →ISBN, page 76:
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| at-'em ball | alternative | lexicographic | |
| at'em ball | alternative | lexicographic | |
| at 'em balls | Number=Plur | lexicographic |