John Ruth wrote:
>[...]
>Methinks the puzzle writer was engaging in some sort of 
>wordplay.  Did the puzzle have a "theme," as some do?

If I could belabor the patience of the list-moms for one final moment.

In preparation for replying to John's note, I was looking
at the on-line version of the puzzle[*].  I double-checked the clue 
(which read "BALL ____ HAMMER")
and I checked the puzzle's solution, which read "TEEN".)

But in the few minutes before I could send my response I see
that  the site has changed the clue to "YOUNG ADULT".

So, it appears that the puzzle-folks might have realized that they messed up.

Oh well.  Thanks all.
N

[P.S. Any interested parties can find the puzzle at the following link
   https://www.merriam-webster.com/word-games/universal-daily-crossword
(the puzzle for 11 July, 2017; the clue in question is 12D). ]