In a game against the Washington Senators on June 23, 1917, Boston pitcher Babe Ruth angrily charged umpire Brick Owens after Owens called ball four for the first batter of the game. Ruth was ejected from the game, his teammates dragging him from the field. Ernie Shore came into the game in relief and proceeded to set down the next 26 hitters. The only hitter to get on base — Ruth’s walk — was caught trying to steal second.
Great info, Precious. Imagine that happening today — a reliever coming in and pitching nearly a complete game. Unheard of in this day and age of six innings and you’re gone, regardless of how well you’re pitching. I’m still trying to figure out this craziness with pitch count and starters who can’t go longer than six innings. They’re making MILLIONS per year and they can’t complete a ball game? Mind-boggling.
During televised games, a batter’s name and stats no longer appear continuously while he’s at the plate. Half the time I don’t know who’s batting! We do, however, see a current pitch count posted constantly. What’s up with that? When did pitch count become so ridiculously important? Can you explain these things for me, Precious? LOL .
I wish I could! There just seems to be such a different mindset when it comes to pitching. Managers want to protect prized arms. Pitchers know they’ll be pulled after so many pitches, so they overdo it. They sprint, rather than set pace for a marathon. And yes, the disappearance of batter names is annoying. Unless you already know who the player is, you end up lost. Makes it difficult to learn new names.