Origin of Phrases - O
On the ball
Meaning: To be paying attention, to respond promptly, to be doing one's job.
Example: If you were a bit more on the ball, we might have averted the reactor melt down.
Origin: From the early days of baseball. A pitcher who "had nothing on the ball" was one who was having a bad outing. The term implies that the pitcher has no control or speed on the ball.