Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 8/21/2009

Question
If a starting pitcher only gives up one run, but his team loses 5-4 and a relief pitcher gave up the 4 other runs.  His team never tied the game or took the lead; what pitcher gets the loss?  The starter or the reliever?

Answer
Chad,

It might seem unfair, but the starting pitcher gets the loss.  Since he left with his team behind (after giving up the run that put them behind) and his team never caught back up, he gets the loss.

If his team tied the game (or took the lead) he would be off the hook and the reliever would be charged with the loss.

Hope this helps!

Brian