The phrase signals the commencement of a player’s turn at bat. It originates from the traditional call made by an umpire or another individual involved in the sport, indicating that the next hitter should approach home plate and prepare to face the pitcher. A scenario highlighting this term involves the announcer stating, “With the count full, it’s ‘batter up,’ Jones steps into the box.”
This action marks a pivotal moment in the game. It represents an opportunity for the offensive team to advance runners and score runs. Historically, this moment has been a key point of drama and strategy, setting the stage for potential game-changing plays. Success hinges on the hitter’s skill, the pitcher’s ability, and the strategic decisions made by the managers.