In baseball, the term “hold” is a statistic used to evaluate the performance of relief pitchers, specifically those tasked with maintaining a lead in close games. While it may not be as widely recognized as the save, the hold plays a crucial role in modern baseball strategy.
Let’s break down what a hold is, how it’s earned, and its impact on the game.
What Counts as a Hold in Baseball?
A hold is awarded to a relief pitcher who:
- Enters the game in a save situation.
- Maintains the team’s lead while recording at least one out.
- Does not finish the game or earn a save.
To qualify for a hold, the pitcher must protect a lead of three runs or fewer, or enter the game with the tying run either on base, at bat, or on deck.
The hold is not an official MLB stat but is widely used in fantasy baseball and by analysts to measure a middle reliever’s effectiveness.
What is the Difference Between a Hold and a Save?
The primary difference lies in the pitcher’s role and responsibilities:
- Hold: Awarded to a relief pitcher who maintains a lead without finishing the game.
- Save: Given to a pitcher who closes the game under specific conditions, ensuring the team’s victory.
While both stats highlight a pitcher’s ability to handle high-pressure situations, the save is reserved for the closer.
Do You Have to Finish an Inning to Get a Hold?
No, a pitcher does not need to finish an inning to earn a hold. As long as the pitcher records at least one out and preserves the lead, they qualify for the stat.
However, leaving runners on base who later score could disqualify them from receiving a hold.
Can You Get a Hold in the Fifth Inning?
No, holds are only awarded in save situations, which typically occur in the later innings of a game. For a pitcher to earn a hold, the game must meet the criteria for a save opportunity, which usually begins in the sixth inning or later.
How Does a Hold Work?
A hold works by recognizing the efforts of relief pitchers who set up the closer for a potential save. Here’s how it plays out:
- A middle reliever enters the game in a save situation.
- The pitcher records at least one out while maintaining the lead.
- The pitcher exits the game without surrendering the lead.
Holds provide a way to credit pitchers who excel in the crucial middle innings of close games.
Does a Save Count as a Hold?
No, a save does not count as a hold. These are separate statistics that recognize different roles within the bullpen. A pitcher cannot earn both a hold and a save in the same game.
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FAQs About Holds in Baseball
What counts as a hold in baseball?
A hold is awarded to a relief pitcher who enters a save situation, records at least one out, and preserves the lead without finishing the game.
What is the difference between a hold and a save?
A hold recognizes a middle reliever’s effort to maintain a lead, while a save is credited to the pitcher who closes the game and secures the win.
Do you have to finish an inning to get a hold?
No, as long as the pitcher records at least one out and maintains the lead, they qualify for a hold.
Can you get a hold in the fifth inning?
No, holds are only awarded in save situations, which typically begin in the sixth inning or later.
Does a save count as a hold?
No, a save and a hold are separate statistics, and a pitcher cannot earn both in the same game.
Conclusion
The hold statistic shines a light on the often-overlooked contributions of middle relievers in baseball. By maintaining the lead in tight games, these pitchers set the stage for closers to secure victories.
Understanding holds adds depth to the appreciation of baseball’s strategic intricacies and highlights the importance of a strong bullpen.
