Can of Corn: What Does This Baseball Term Mean?
Contents
Learn about the baseball term “can of corn” and how it is used in the game.
The Definition of a Can of Corn
A can of corn is a fly ball that an outfielder catches for an easy out, usually in front of or near the outfielder. The term suggests that the catch is so easy that even a person with no baseball experience could catch it, as if they were catching a can of corn off a grocery store shelf.
The Origin of the Term
The most popular theory about the origin of “can of corn” is that it dates back to the early days of baseball, when outfielders had to use a small basket to catch pop flies. These baskets, which were called “cornucopias” or “cornucopias of plenty,” were made out of wicker and had a handle on top so they could be easily carried. The word “cornucopia” comes from the Latin “cornu copiae,” which means “horn of plenty.”
As the story goes, when an outfielder had to make a catch in one of these baskets, he would shout “Can of corn!” to let his teammates know that he was ready. The term eventually made its way into the baseball lexicon, and it is still used today to describe a routine fly ball that an outfielder can easily catch.
How the Term is Used in Baseball
The phrase “can of corn” is used to describe a routine fly ball that an outfielder should be able to catch easily. The term is most often used when the outfielder catches the ball without having to move much, as if he were simply reaching up and plucking the ball out of the air like a can of corn off a grocery store shelf.
While “can of corn” is primarily used in baseball, it can also be used in other sports to describe an easy catch or shot. For example, a basketball player might say he “caught a can of corn” after snagging an easy rebound.
Other Meanings of the Term
Although “can of corn” is most commonly used in baseball, it actually has a few other meanings.
In politics, a “can of corn” refers to a easy or expected victory. For example, if a candidate is running against an opponent who is weak and not well-known, they might say that it’s a “can of corn” and they’re almost guaranteed to win.
Outside of politics, a “can of corn” can refer to anything that’s easy to obtain or accomplish. For example, if you need to buy some milk from the store, you might say that it’s a “can of corn” because it’s an easy task.
