Does anyone remember the original definition of a "Save?"

[THE OX]

As I recall, back about 1960 when the statistic "Save" was originally proposed, a pitcher had to:

(1) Finish the game
(2) Face the tying run at the plate, or
(2A) Pitch two or more scoreless innings protecting a 2-run lead

Whatever the hell they were, current "save rules" seem to be a helluva lot more lenient. Hence, the ridiculous numbers being accumulated by today's closers. :rolleyes: :laugh

What are your recollections of the "original" rules for awarding a Save, and when did the statistic get cheapened? :noidea

[Tango Tiger]

You can try to figure it out based on what it says here:

http://www.baseballlibrary.com/baseballlibrary/excerpts/rules_chronology2.stm

Also try googling "Mike's Baseball Rants". He'll definitely have it.

[soberdennis]

As I recall, back about 1960 when the statistic "Save" was originally proposed, a pitcher had to:

(1) Finish the game
(2) Face the tying run at the plate, or
(2A) Pitch two or more scoreless innings protecting a 2-run lead

Whatever the hell they were, current "save rules" seem to be a helluva lot more lenient. Hence, the ridiculous numbers being accumulated by today's closers. :rolleyes: :laugh

What are your recollections of the "original" rules for awarding a Save, and when did the statistic get cheapened? :noidea
There was a time when it seemed all you had to do was come in with a lead and finish the game.