In Baseball, do you get a save if the potential tying run is on deck, assuming all other qualifers are met?

Question

How does a pitcher earn a save. I believe he has to face the potential winning run at bat, friend say potential winning run has to be on deck (Example: two out in the ninth. Vistors up 2-0. Bring in reliever. He gets first guy out. Does he get a save?)

Answer 1

Yes. From the MLB rules - note section (3)(b):

SAVES FOR RELIEF PITCHERS
10.20
Credit a pitcher with a save when he meets all three of the following conditions:
(1) He is the finishing pitcher in a game won by his club; and
(2) He is not the winning pitcher; and
(3) He qualifies under one of the following conditions:
(a) He enters the game with a lead of no more than three runs and pitches for at least one inning; or
(b) He enters the game, regardless of the count, with the potential tying run either on base, or at bat, or on deck (that is, the potential tying run is either already on base or is one of the first two batsmen he faces); or
(c) He pitches effectively for at least three innings. No more than one save may be credited in each game.

Answer 2

Saves used to be really complicated but now they have simplified it quite a bit. You have to come in during the last 2 innings first off. Second, if the opposing team has a chance to tie the game at the time the closer comes in it is a save opp. In your scenario if it is 2-0 and there is a runner on base and he gets the guy out to end the game it is a save.

Answer 3

Tying run has to be up at bat for the save. Guy on deck means nothing.

Answer 4

a save depends on the score being 4 runs or less. if the pitcher is inserted in the 7th inning with a 2-0 lead and his team explodes in the later innings yet he finishes the game he still gets the save.

Answer 5

potential tying run has to be at bat, you are more right, but not entirely

Answer 6

yep
3 runs or less and its a save. i think

Answer 7

i need help with something!