The term "sacrifice fly" is quite common in the game of baseball. It refers to a long fly ball that allows a runner on third base to tag up and score a run. The word "sacrifice" is spelled with stress on the first syllable, /ˈsæk.rɪ.faɪs/, and the word "fly" is pronounced with the vowel sound /aɪ/. When combined, the two words form "sacrifice fly" with stress on the second syllable of "sacrifice", /ˈsæk.rə.faɪs flaɪ/, and a slightly pronounced second vowel sound in "fly", /flaɪ/.
A sacrifice fly is a term primarily used in the sport of baseball. In the context of the game, a sacrifice fly is a specific type of hit that results in a player effectively sacrificing their own at-bat in order to advance a teammate who is already on base to the next base or even score a run. This play is typically executed when there is less than two outs and a runner is positioned on third base.
To accomplish a sacrifice fly, the batter intentionally hits a fly ball into the outfield with the intention of allowing the runner on third base to tag up and score a run. Although the batter is ultimately called out, it is seen as a strategic move to help the team score.
The success of a sacrifice fly lies in the batter's ability to hit a deep enough fly ball, giving the runner enough time to reach home plate before the ball is caught by one of the outfielders. If the runner successfully crosses home plate after the catch, the team is awarded a run, and the batter is credited with the sacrifice fly.
Overall, a sacrifice fly is a selfless act by a batter who sacrifices their own at-bat for the betterment of the team by advancing or scoring a runner, often contributing to the team's offensive strategy.
The term "sacrifice fly" has its origins in baseball. The word "fly" refers to a "fly ball", which is a term for a ball that is hit in the air. The word "sacrifice" indicates that the batter intentionally hits a fly ball to advance a runner while sacrificing his own chance of getting on base or scoring. The term "sacrifice fly" is believed to have emerged in the late 19th century when baseball rules were being formalized and standardized. It has since become a common phrase within the sport.