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Baseball Terms - C

Called Strike - A strike called by the umpire that the batter does not swing at.

Catch - The act of the defensive player obtaining and maintaining control of ball hit by the offensive team without use of his uniform. The offensive player is out when the defensive player catches the ball without the ball touching the ground first. It is considered an out by the umpire if the defensive players shows control of the baseball after the catch, such as taking the ball from his glove.

Catcher - The defensive player that catches balls thrown by the pitcher. The catcher is located behind home plate and is responsible for protecting home plate in the event the offensive team attempts to score.

Caught Looking - A term used when the third strike is called on a batter without the batter attempting to swing at the pitch.

Caught Stealing - A term used when the base runner is thrown out in an attempt to steal a base.

Center Fielder - The defensive position located in the outfield between the left fielder and right fielder.

Change Up - A ball thrown by the pitcher in an attempt to confuse the batter. The pitch is thrown with the same motion as a fast ball but at a velocity that is considerably less.

Checked Swing - A swing in which the batter partially swings the bat forward but does not swing all the way. This swing is not considered a strike.

Cleat - A special shoe worn by baseball players that allows for better traction while playing. The cleat usually has rubber or metal spikes on the bottom that digs into the ground as the player runs.

Club - The organization that makes up the baseball team including the players, manager, coaches, trainers, upper management, and administrative personnel.

Coach - A member of the team that has duties of giving specific instruction to the team players. The coach is designated by the team manager.

Complete Game - A game in which the pitcher throws for nine innings and records a victory.

Count - The number of balls and strikes that a batter has during an at bat. Balls are always listed first followed by strikes. A count of 3-2 would represent three balls and two strikes.

Curve Ball - A ball thrown by the pitcher that has a slower velocity than a fast ball and has the attributes of curving or breaking sharply. The intent of the pitch is to catch the batter off balance.

Cut Off Man - The player on the field responsible for relaying the throw of the outfielder. It is usually the shortstop or second baseman who cuts the ball off and relays the ball to a base.

Cutter - A fast ball thrown by the pitcher that has a late break. Also known as a cut fastball.

Cycle - The act of an offensive player hitting a single, double, triple, and a home run during the same game. Also known as "hitting for the cycle".