Duck Fart Balls

Written byNick Gilden Hours Last Updated on Categories Baseball

What Does Duck Fart Balls Mean in Baseball?

In the colorful lexicon of baseball, various entertaining and unconventional terms have been coined to describe the nuances of the game. One such term, “duck fart,” refers to a specific type of hit within the sport. Contrary to what the name might suggest, this term has nothing to do with waterfowl or their noises but is used to describe a softly hit ball that travels just beyond the infield, often landing in the outfield for a single base hit. The imagery invoked by the term relates to the notion that a duck’s feathers would presumably muffle the sound of its flatulence, just as the soft contact between the bat and the ball produces a more subdued noise than a solid hit.

The term was popularized by Ken Harrelson, a broadcaster for the Chicago White Sox, who used the phrase to represent the quiet, yet effective nature of this kind of hit. Due to its somewhat comical and less-than-serious nature, “duck fart” is a term that brings a touch of humor to the game while providing a vivid description of a small, but strategic victory for the batter. To make it more family-friendly during broadcasts, the phrase “duck snort” is often used as an alternative, maintaining the spirit of the original term without offending listeners.

This uncommon but apt expression distinguishes itself within baseball dialogue, reflecting the game’s rich tradition of crafting unique jargon to capture the many facets of its play. Whether one prefers the original term or its radio-friendly counterpart, both convey the clever creativity embedded in America’s pastime.

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Understanding the Term

This section explicates the meaning of “duck fart” in the baseball lexicon, exploring its whimsical origin and how it is used to describe a particular type of hit within the game.

Origins of the Term

“Duck fart” is a colloquial term adopted within baseball circles to denote a specific type of hit. The name is derived from a humorous comparison. Just as a duck’s flatulence — theoretically muffled by its feathers — would produce a soft sound, a bloop single creates a muted noise upon contact with the bat, lacking the resounding crack associated with more powerful hits.

Usage in Baseball Vernacular

In baseball terminology, a “duck fart” refers to a hit that is neither forceful nor majestic, but rather an unlikely, softly-hit ball that manages to find space between the infielders and outfielders for a hit. These hits can frustrate pitchers, since they often result in a hit despite an apparent lack of solid contact or batting skill. With respect to the term’s usage, broadcasters may opt for the less colorful “duck snort” to maintain on-air decorum.

Cultural Impact

The term “Duck Fart” has left a quirky imprint on baseball’s vernacular, weaving its way into broadcasts and fans’ discussions, impacting both popular media and the baseball community.

The colorful expression “Duck Fart” has been referenced and used in various forms of popular media, including television broadcasts and sports talk shows, due to its originality and humor. It illustrates baseball’s rich tapestry of folklore and terminology that broadcasters and writers often celebrate.

Reception by Baseball Community

Within the baseball community, the term is received with a mixture of amusement and endearment. Players and fans alike may use “Duck Fart” informally to describe a weakly hit ball that results in a fortuitous single. Announcers, however, may opt for the synonym “duck snort” to maintain professionalism during broadcasts.

I'm Nick, a professional researcher & writer by day and a die-hard baseball fan by night. I have a deep love and knowledge of the game and love sharing it with others. I've been involved in baseball in one way or another for as long as I can remember - playing the game on an amateur level since I was a kid, writing about the game for my college newspaper, and now working with some of the biggest names in baseball media.