Can of Corn

A can of corn is baseball slang for an easy, high fly ball that an outfielder can catch without difficulty. The ball has a high arc and comes down softly, allowing the fielder to simply wait underneath it.

Origin of the Term

The phrase dates back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, referring to how grocery store clerks would use a stick to tip cans off high shelves, then catch them easily as they fell. The cans would drop in a predictable arc, just like an easy fly ball.

What Makes a Can of Corn

A can of corn typically has:

• High trajectory: Plenty of time to track the ball
• No wind complications: Straightforward flight path
• Hit right at someone: No running or diving required
• No sun issues: Clear sightline to the ball

In Broadcasting

Announcers love using this phrase because:

• It immediately signals an easy out
• It's a colorful piece of baseball vernacular
• Fans know exactly what to expect
• It adds personality to routine plays

Related Phrases

• "Routine fly ball": The standard way to describe it
• "Camped under it": When a fielder waits for the catch
• "Basket catch": Catching the ball at waist level (Willie Mays style)
• "Snow cone catch": When the ball sticks out of the top of the glove