Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 10/5/2009

Question
Is it possible for a pitcher to be recorded as the losing pitcher without ever actually throwing a pitch?

Answer
Nate,

It is possible but wildly unlikely.  One way would be for the pitcher to go to their mouth with their hand while on the pitcher's mound.  If they do that four separate times (without throwing a pitch) then the batter would go to first on a walk.  The penalty for doing that is to have the ump call a ball.  He could also refuse to throw the ball, delaying the game.  The penalty for that is also a ball.  Do it four times, let the runner on, then get removed from the game, the reliever allows the runner to score and his team loses.

Hope this helps!

Brian