Phrase
a position where success is unlikely (a batter only has 3 strikes until he is out)
two strikes against us
What do you think happened? Well... the flu is going around and the first episode of the new TV series was on. That made it two strikes against us.
Phrase
to substitute for someone esp. in an emergency (one batter replaces another to try to win)
pinch hit for her
Oh right, I heard the leading lady got sick. Was the person who pinch hit for her good? Yes, she's pretty experienced and was fantastic!
Phrase
do something extremely well (such a good hit the ball goes over the wall for a home run)
hit it out of the ballpark
The lead actors hit it out of the ballpark. But I must say the supporting roles weren't so hot. Maybe it's good that fewer people came after all!