By Gail Stephenson
December 1, 1996

Many expressions from the sports world have crept into our daily speech (e.g., slam dunk, struck out, goal line stand). When using such expressions, make certain you understand the meaning. "Pinch hitter" is a baseball term which is often used interchangeable with "substitute." In baseball, a pinch hitter is usually a power hitter who bats for a less effective batter, such as the pitcher. If you substitute for another attorney in a hearing and tell the court you are "pinch hitting," the judge many expect you to perform better than the person you are replacing. If you were substituted because of your expertise, you are indeed a "pinch hitter." If, however, you are there because you are at the bottom of the letterhead and no one else wanted to go to Chalmette, "second stringer reliever" might be a more appropriate term.