pitcher

A pitcher is a container used to hold and pour liquids. It typically features a handle and a spout and may be made from ceramic, glass, metal, or plastic. Pitchers range widely in capacity, from small creamers to large water jugs, and are used in homes, restaurants, and laboratories.

In everyday use, pitchers are designed to control the flow of liquid. Household pitchers often have insulated walls for temperature retention, pouring lips for smooth discharge, and sometimes measurement marks. Materials vary: ceramic and stoneware for hot beverages, glass for visibility, stainless steel for durability.

Historically, pitchers have been produced since ancient times. Early vessels were shaped by hand in clay and metal, with improvements in glazing and manufacturing during the 17th–19th centuries, leading to mass production in glass, earthenware, and metalware. Modern designs emphasize sealing, handling, and aesthetics.

In sports, a pitcher is a player who throws the ball to the batter. In baseball and softball, pitchers start games and may be designated as starters or relievers. They employ a variety of pitches—fastball, changeup, curveball, slider, and others—chosen to exploit batter weaknesses and game strategy. Performance is tracked by statistics such as earned run average and strikeouts.

The term pitcher also extends to figurative uses such as someone who delivers a sales or business pitch in order to persuade an audience or potential investor.