The Art of the Long Save: A Rare Feat in Modern Baseball
In the world of baseball, where statistics and records are revered, one particular feat has become increasingly rare: the three-inning save. As a passionate observer of the game and host of the Three-Inning Save podcast, I've been intrigued by this trend, especially as it relates to the reigning champions, the Dodgers.
The Dodgers, a team known for their strategic bullpen management, haven't achieved a three-inning save in 2026. This fact alone sparked my curiosity about the team's ability to repeat their championship success. And then, a recent game presented a tantalizing opportunity.
On a fateful Wednesday night, the Dodgers called up Landon Knack, signaling a bullpen reset. With Eric Lauer's splendid six-inning, 107-pitch performance, the stage was set for a potential three-inning save. But, in a twist, Lauer was left in the game, striking out Josh Rojas and extending his outing.
This decision, while denying us the three-inning save, highlights a fascinating aspect of baseball strategy. Managers must balance the desire for a rare feat with the practicalities of winning. In this case, the Dodgers chose to stick with a hot pitcher, ensuring a lead, but sacrificing a potential record.
What makes this particularly intriguing is the historical context. Since saves became official in 1969, the Dodgers have only recorded 19 saves of exactly eight outs. The last instance was a remarkable 39 years ago, featuring pitcher Brian Holton. Holton's story is a testament to the rarity and significance of these extended saves.
In 1987, Holton entered a game against the Braves with the bases loaded, a high-pressure situation. He not only extinguished the threat but also went on to pitch multiple innings, showcasing his endurance and skill. This performance led to the first save of his career, a moment that likely left an indelible mark on his baseball journey.
But the story doesn't end there. Holton's career included two more regular-season saves and a crucial role in the 1988 postseason, where he saved a crucial NLCS game. His ability to deliver in high-stakes situations is a testament to the value of long-relief pitchers.
Now, let's fast forward to Mike Marshall, a pitcher whose 1974 season was extraordinary. Marshall, the very embodiment of a multi-inning reliever, achieved saves of every number of outs from one to 12. This feat is almost unimaginable in today's game, where specialization and pitch count limits are the norm.
Personally, I find this aspect of baseball history captivating. It invites us to reflect on the evolution of the game and the changing strategies. In an era where bullpen management is a fine art, these long saves are becoming increasingly rare, making them all the more special when they occur.
As we witness the Dodgers' 2026 season unfold, the absence of a three-inning save raises questions about modern baseball's approach to relief pitching. Are teams missing out on an underutilized strategy, or is this a relic of a bygone era? Only time will tell, but the discussion is a fascinating one for baseball enthusiasts and historians alike.
