Interesting Stat.

[johnnyg08]

It's definitely over rated.

They're overpaid, the agents made up this statistic years ago when former starters were washed up but could still go for an inning or two...to maintain name recognition for the fans, they created this "closer" position for one inning.

Years ago, your closer would enter as early as the 7th inning if there was a situation where you actually needed a real stopper.

Many MLB pitchers can enter the game in the 9th inning w/ nobody on base and get guys out. Are some better than others...sure. I know others will disagree...will be in interesting thread.