SportsAugust 17, 2026

utilityman

yoo-TIL-ih-tee-man

Definition

A baseball player capable of playing several different positions on the field with reasonable competence, often used as a versatile substitute or flexible roster member.

Etymology

Derived from the word 'utility' (from the Latin 'utilitas,' meaning usefulness or profit) combined with 'man,' the term emerged in the 20th century to describe a versatile player who serves many functions for a sports team.

In the news

The article describes Ramon Urias as a 'nice utilityman' in theory, though his recent injury and missed time cast doubt on his ability to provide meaningful help to the Cardinals this season.

Tony Santillan (oblique) has successful rehab outing

Read the full article ↗

NBC Sports

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