squeeze play

plural squeeze plays · alternative squeeze-play

1. ball gamesThe tactic of bunting the ball to help a runner at third base score.First known use 1905

   The squeeze play is on! Jones bunts, and Smith scores from third.

2. figurativelyAn instance of 'squeezing' someone: a use of pressure or force to achieve one's goal.First known use 1916

   This "squeeze play" is only one of many battles between Wead and liberals on Bush's staff.

   1990 August 31, John Zeh, “Bush Aide Fired For Anti-Gay Stance”, in Gay Community News, volume 18, number 7, page 6

3. bridgeThe tactic of running a suit to compel another player to waste potentially winning cards.First known use 1926

   Squeeze play is an important part of the endgame.

4. card gamesThe tactic of reraising a raiser and a caller to compel one or both to fold, often as a bluff.