Translation guide
In baseball, the pitcher who begins the game. Japanese uses specific terms depending on context, with 先発投手 being the most common and neutral.
The player who pitches from the beginning of a baseball game.
In baseball talk, 先発 can also be used as a verb (先発する) meaning 'to start (a game)'. For example: 田中が先発する (Tanaka will start).
Standard term for 'starting pitcher' in baseball. Used in news, commentary, and everyday conversation.
Today's starting pitcher is Tanaka.
The starting pitcher pitched through the 7th inning.
Short for 先発投手. Very common in casual conversation and headlines.
Who's the starter?
Tomorrow's starter has been announced.
Loanword from English 'starter'. Used in sports contexts, but 先発 is more common.
He's the team's ace starter.