SportsJuly 16, 2026

shortstop

/ˈʃɔːrt.stɑːp/

Definition

A defensive baseball position played between second and third base, or the player who occupies that position.

Etymology

The term originated in the late 19th century in the United States, combining 'short' (meaning near or minor) and 'stop' (the act of stopping a ball) to describe a fielder stationed between the bases to 'stop' batted balls.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe Matt Ponatoski's dual-position role as both a pitcher and a middle infielder during his high school baseball career.

Matt Ponatoski picks Kentucky football, baseball over Cincinnati Reds

Read the full article ↗

The Courier-Journal

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