Definition of relief pitcher

The term "relief pitcher" originated in baseball in the early 20th century. Prior to this, pitchers typically played the entire game, often pitching multiple innings in a row. This strategy proved tiring for the pitcher and could affect their performance later in the game. In 1920, the Boston Red Sox coaching staff developed a strategy called "relief pitching." This strategy involved substituting a fresh pitcher for the tired starter in the middle of the game. The new pitcher was tasked with "relieving" the starting pitcher and enabling the team to preserve their energy and maintain a competitive edge. Initially, the term "relief pitching" referred to any situation in which a pitcher substituted for another pitcher. However, over time, it became specifically associated with pitching in relief of the starting pitcher, often referred to as a "starter." Since the 1920s, relief pitching has become a crucial aspect of baseball strategy, and relief pitchers are often identified as specialists in their role. They are usually brought into the game to preserve a lead, end a threatening rally, or enter in the later innings of a tied game. In summary, the term "relief pitcher" originated in the early 1920s as a strategy to provide fresh pitchers to replace tired starters during games. The technique has since evolved into a crucial aspect of baseball strategy, with relief pitchers filling a specialized role in games.