Definition
The 'cleanup position' is the fourth spot in a batting order in baseball or softball. It's considered a crucial position because the batter in this spot ideally drives in runners who are already on base. The 'cleanup hitter' is usually one of the team's strongest and most reliable hitters, someone with power and a good batting average. They are relied upon to 'clean up' the bases by bringing runners home. Think of them as the closer in a debate, delivering the knockout punch. βΎ