The bullpen is two things at once: the group of relief pitchers a team carries, and the area off to the side of the field where those pitchers warm up before entering. Both meanings are central to how a modern game is managed.
The relievers
Once the starter tires, the bullpen takes over the game, usually an inning or two at a time. A deep, reliable bullpen can be the difference in a pennant race, and in October it’s often what wins a championship.
The warm-up area
The physical bullpen is where a reliever loosens up while the game goes on, so he’s ready the moment the manager calls. You’ll see pitchers throwing there in the late innings, a sign the current pitcher may be coming out soon.
FAQ
Why is it called a bullpen?
The name is old and its exact origin is debated, but it has long referred to the relievers’ warm-up area.
How many relievers are in a bullpen?
Usually seven or eight, out of the 26-man roster.
