This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, November 27, 2025 (35 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Thursday puzzles often have a trick, such as a rebus (several letters in one square) or answers that bend the rules.
How to read this clue
The question mark warns of wordplay. Expect a pun or a second meaning rather than a straight definition.
Answer length: 9 squares
First letter
S _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
First and last letters
S _ _ _ _ _ _ _ P
Show the answer
About the answer
SHORTSTOP as a word: (baseball) The infield defensive player that stands between the second baseman and the third baseman; (figuratively) A nimble defender.
SHORTSTOP has been an answer 2 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since November 8, 2025.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
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- Go after, in a way (37 Down)
- Tread on me! (44 Down)
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