have two strikes against one
have two strikes on one
To have things working against you; be hindered in several ways; be in a difficult situation; be unlikely to succeed.
Children from the poorest parts of a city often have two strikes against them before they enter school.
George has two strikes against him already. Everybody is against what he wants to do.
From baseball. Two opportunities wasted in some undertaking, so that only one chance is left.
(In baseball, three strikes are out. If the umpire calls two strikes against the batter, he has only one strike left and will be out if he gets one more strike.)
(In baseball, three strikes are out. If the umpire calls two strikes against the batter, he has only one strike left and will be out if he gets one more strike.)
Poor John has two strikes against him when it comes to his love for Frances: first, he is too fat, and, second, he is bald.