The 'Non-Save Situation' doesn't begin to describe what's at stake

• The 'NON-SAVE SITUATION' can mean too many things and therefore should probably be retired. Often in the 'non-save situation' known as a 'TIE GAME,' a pitcher may "save" the game for his team, but only be credited with a lowly 'WIN' stat as happened to Papelbon tonight.
• ("Non-save situations" can also be mop-up duty where nothing is at stake, eg, losing by 10 runs, or it can be a pitcher coming in with a 4 or 5 run lead. All different).

Joe Castiglione in the top of the 9th. Blue Jays-Red Sox, Score tied 0-0. Papelbon about to pitch. Joe says as if this has some urgency:

• "This is only the third time this year Papelbon has pitched in a 'NON SAVE SITUATION'!"

What is urgent is that it's a tie game in the 9th inning, not that it's a "non-save situation," but I don't blame Castiglione for mentioning it. Other people are responsible for promotion of certain stats. It's an example of 'the tail wagging the dog.' It derives from the vain "total save stat" which often obscures issues to begin with.

• They know who they are.

Tweet Stumbleupon StumbleUpon