Expert: Steve L - 7/28/2004

Question
I would like to know if the fireman of the year award is the same as the rolaids relief man award.  thanks

Answer
The ROLAIDS RELIEF AWARD was started in 1976 in an effort to honor the top closer from each league.  It is the only award handed out that isn't voted on, but rather awarded to the player with the highest score based on the following formula:

Save = 2 pts, Tough Save (entering the game with the tying run on base) = 4 pts, Win = 2 pts, Loss = -2 pts, Blown Save = -2 pts

The Sporting News established its FIREMAN OF THE YEAR Award in 1960, to be given to the top relief pitcher in each league.

After 2001, it became known as the Sporting News Reliever of the Year.