also: トップ・バッター
leadoff batter; first batter
Baseball term for the first batter in the lineup. Wasei-eigo from English 'top batter'.
wasei-eigo (Japanese-coined English), from top batter
He played in the game as the team's leadoff batter.
first person to appear; first up
Extended use outside baseball: the first person to perform, speak, or appear in any sequence. Common in variety shows, presentations, and events.
As the first speaker at the meeting, I gave my opinion.
Today's first presenter is Mr. Tanaka.
He served as the leadoff batter in today's game.
She gave her speech as the first speaker.
The new employee was the first to give a presentation.