Crossword Genius

Foolishly close to the bat? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

silly

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This clue might be a double definition.

'foolishly close' is the first definition.
Both the answer and definition are adjectives. Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'the bat?' is the second definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how they can define each other.

'to' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for silly that I've seen before include "Idiotic" , "Ridiculous, frivolous" , "Ludicrous, foolish" , "near the batsman" , "Inane; very close (fielder)" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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