Ball Park Figures

According to an SI poll of big league players, these words and phrases are the newest additions to the game's lexicon:

When a struggling hitter pulls his average above .200, he has "crossed the Mendoza Line," so named for former major-leaguer Mario Mendoza, whose career average (1974-81) was .216.

A "yakker" or an "Uncle Charlie" or the "yellow hammer" all describe a fine curve; "good cheese" is a blurring fastball.

A ball that "hits metal" has been misplayed by the fielder.

When a pitcher is "bridged" he has allowed a home run.

"If you're waving at me, howdy," is said to a player who strikes out swinging.