Pronunciation: [sˈak flˈa͡ɪ] (IPA) 
"Sac fly" is a term used in baseball to describe a sacrifice fly, where a batter hits a fly ball that allows a teammate to score a run. The spelling of "sac fly" is based on the abbreviation of the word "sacrifice" and the colloquial pronunciation of "fly" as /flaɪ/. The IPA phonetic transcription for "sac fly" is /sæk flaɪ/. This is a common phrase used in baseball and is often shortened to just "sac."
A sac fly, short for sacrifice fly, is a term primarily used in the sport of baseball to describe a specific type of play that occurs when a batter hits a fly ball that is caught by a fielder, but allows a baserunner to advance and score from third base. It is considered a sacrifice because the batter intentionally hits a ball deep in the outfield with the intention of facilitating a run, even if it means getting out in the process.
The sac fly is typically executed when a baserunner is standing at third base and less than two outs are recorded during the play. To execute a sac fly, the batter aims to hit the ball high and far enough to give the baserunner ample time to reach home plate after the ball is caught. As soon as the fly ball is caught by the fielder, the baserunner tags up and races towards the next base, timing it in a way that they can safely touch home plate before an out is made.
Sac flies are often a result of strategic decision-making by the team, as they can help increase the chances of scoring runs. They are often part of a game plan designed to maximize offensive production and provide opportunities for teammates to score. The batter is praised for successfully executing a sac fly, as it displays situational awareness and a selfless approach to benefiting the team.
The term "sac fly" is an abbreviation of the phrase "sacrifice fly". The word "sacrifice" in baseball refers to a play in which a batter intentionally allows themselves to be put out to advance a runner or score a run. In the case of a sacrifice fly, the hitter hits a fly ball deep enough into the outfield to allow a baserunner to tag up on third base and score a run. Over time, the term has been shortened to "sac fly" for convenience and brevity.
