Baseball fans know there’s nothing quite like the high-stakes drama of a save. But what is a save in baseball?
In this article, we’ll break down how saves work, highlight the pitchers who’ve set records, and revisit the blown saves that still leave fans talking. If you love the drama of the game, this guide is for you.
What Is a Save in Baseball?
A save in baseball is all about stepping up in high-pressure situations to protect a team’s lead and secure the win.
It’s awarded to relief pitchers who enter the game with everything on the line, such as a slim lead in the final inning or a critical moment with the tying run threatening.
The save is more than just a stat; it’s a badge of honor highlighting a pitcher’s ability to deliver when it matters most.
The Official Rules Defining a Save
According to MLB rules, a save is awarded to a relief pitcher who successfully finishes a game for the winning team under specific conditions:
- The pitcher must preserve the team’s lead when entering the game.
- They must take the mound with no more than a three-run lead and pitch at least one full inning.
- Alternatively, they can enter the game with the tying run on base, at bat, or in the on-deck circle, regardless of the score.
- A pitcher can also earn a save by pitching at least three innings to close the game, even if the lead is larger than three runs.
- The same pitcher cannot be credited with both a win and a save in the same game.
These rules ensure that a save represents a genuinely high-stakes moment, where the game's outcome often rests on the relief pitcher’s performance.
Saves by the Numbers
The effectiveness of a pitcher in save situations is often measured by their save percentage (SV%). This metric is calculated by dividing the total number of saves by the total number of save opportunities. For example, if a pitcher converts 40 saves out of 50 opportunities, their SV% is 80%.
How to Get a Save in Baseball
So, how do you actually earn a save? Let’s break it down.
- Be a Relief Pitcher: Only relief pitchers can earn a save. Starters can’t claim this stat, even if they finish the game.
- Enter with Your Team in the Lead: When you take the mound, your team must already be winning. Saves are all about protecting that lead.
- Meet One of These Criteria:
- Take the mound with a lead of three runs or fewer and pitch at least one full inning.
- Enter the game with the tying run on base, at bat, or on deck and maintain the lead.
- Pitch at least three innings to finish the game, regardless of the lead size.
- Close the Game: You must be the final pitcher for your team to earn the save.
Key Scenarios Where Saves Occur
- Protecting a Narrow Lead: The most common save situation happens in the ninth inning, where the closer is brought to preserve a slim lead of three runs or fewer.
- Tying Run Threats: A pitcher might enter the game with runners on base or the tying run about to bat. These moments demand pinpoint accuracy and nerves of steel.
- Long Relief Performances: While rare, a save can also occur when a relief pitcher throws at least three innings to finish the game, especially in extra-inning battles or blowout scenarios.
Records for Saves in Baseball
The single-season saves record is one of baseball’s most celebrated milestones. The current record is held by Francisco Rodríguez (K-Rod), who notched 62 saves in 2008 while playing for the Los Angeles Angels. This incredible feat showcased his consistency, endurance, and ability to thrive under pressure.
Other notable single-season performances include:
- Edwin Díaz: 57 saves in 2018 with the Seattle Mariners.
- Bobby Thigpen: 57 saves in 1990 with the Chicago White Sox.
All-Time Leaders in Saves
When it comes to career saves, a few names stand above the rest. These pitchers didn’t just dominate for a season—they defined the closer role for decades.
- Mariano Rivera: 652 career saves. A New York Yankees legend, Rivera is considered the greatest closer of all time, thanks to his precision, poise, and devastating cutter.
- Trevor Hoffman: 601 career saves. Known for his signature changeup, Hoffman was the first pitcher to reach 600 saves.
- Lee Smith: 478 career saves. One of the early dominant closers, Smith set the standard for future generations.
Most Blown Saves in a Season
The record for the most blown saves in a single season is 14, held by three pitchers:
- Ron Davis (1984, Minnesota Twins)
- Bruce Sutter (1978, Chicago Cubs)
- Rollie Fingers (1976, San Diego Padres)
Blown saves, while frustrating, often reflect the sheer number of opportunities a pitcher has to close games. These records show the challenges and pressures faced by even the most trusted closers.
Wrapping Up
Saves are one of baseball’s most exciting stats, showcasing the incredible skill and nerve of relief pitchers. Understanding what is a save in baseball adds depth to appreciating these high-pressure performances.
Key Takeaways:
- To earn a save, the pitcher must finish the game and not be credited with the win.
- A save happens when a relief pitcher protects a lead of three runs or fewer or faces tying-run threats.
- Francisco Rodríguez set the single-season record with 62 saves in 2008.
- Mariano Rivera holds the all-time record with 652 career saves.
- The most blown saves in a season is 14, shared by Ron Davis, Bruce Sutter, and Rollie Fingers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Qualifies As a Save in Baseball
A relief pitcher earns a save by protecting their team’s lead in specific scenarios. This includes entering the game with a lead of no more than three runs and completing at least one inning, coming in with the tying run either on base, at bat, or in the on-deck circle, or pitching a minimum of three innings to finish the game.
What is The Difference Between a Save And a Hold in Baseball?
A save is an official stat awarded to closers who secure a win by finishing the game. In contrast, a hold is an unofficial stat recognizing middle relievers who maintain the lead before handing the ball to the closer. While starting pitchers can earn wins and closers rack up saves, middle relievers rarely get credit in the form of official statistics, making the hold a way to acknowledge their contribution.
What is The Longest Save in MLB History?
The longest save in MLB history occurred on September 3, 2002, when Joaquín Benoit of the Texas Rangers pitched seven innings to secure a 7–1 victory over the Baltimore Orioles. This remains the longest save recorded since the statistic was officially introduced in 1969.
How Can You Get a Save With a 5 Run Lead?
A five-run save is possible under specific conditions. For example, if a pitcher enters the game with the bases loaded and two outs, the situation qualifies as a save opportunity despite the larger lead. If the pitcher successfully protects the lead and finishes the game, they are credited with the save, even if less than one inning is pitched.