08/02/2026
Question: Why did Emilio Pagan get the win, and not the save last night?
Answer: Rule 9.17 (c)
He entered the 9th inning with the Cincinnati Reds leading 8-7, and recorded the final three outs. In most cases, that's a save.
However...........
Pierce Johnson had allowed three runs in the Top of the 8th (two runners inherited from Caleb Ferguson, and one of his own), allowing the Pirates to take a 7-5 lead. Johnson completed the inning.
The Reds then scored three runs in the bottom of the 8th to take the lead. Normally, the pitcher in the game when his team takes the lead/wins, would get the win.
But............
Rule 9.17 (c)
"The Official Scorer shall not credit as the winning pitcher a relief pitcher who is ineffective in a brief appearance, when at least one succeeding relief pitcher pitches effectively in helping his team maintain its lead. In such a case, the Official Scorer shall credit as the winning pitcher the succeeding relief pitcher who was most effective, in the judgment of the Official Scorer."
Johnson was deemed 'ineffective' in a brief appearance and Pagan, the 'succeeding' reliever, pitched 'effectively' in helping his team maintain its lead.
I will admit, I was not aware of the rule.
