The save —SV— is the stat that defines the closer: it rewards the reliever who finishes a game his team is winning by a narrow margin, without letting the opponent tie it up.
The rules of the save
To be credited with a save, a pitcher must finish the game (without being the winning pitcher) and meet one of these conditions:
- Enter with a lead of three runs or fewer and pitch at least one inning, or
- Enter with the tying run on base, at the plate or on deck, or
- Pitch at least three effective innings to close it out.
Records and examples
- Career saves record: Mariano Rivera, with 652, the Panamanian regarded as the greatest closer in history.
- Francisco Rodríguez (K-Rod) holds the single-season record, with 62 in 2008.
[Live data — MLB API] Current-season saves leaders: (filled in automatically).
Why it matters (and the debate)
The save created the modern role of the closer, one of the most high-profile positions in the game. Even so, some analysts argue the rule concentrates the best relievers in the ninth inning, even though the most dangerous moment of the game often comes earlier.
Related stats
Frequently asked questions
Who has the most saves in history?
Mariano Rivera, with 652.
Can any reliever earn a save?
Only the one who finishes the game while meeting the narrow-lead or innings conditions.
