When was the last time Mariano Rivera issued an intentional base on balls?
When was the last time Mariano Rivera issued an intentional base on balls and was then lifted after 2 outs to give way for the LOOGY?
And is anyone surprised that this scenario ended badly?
I was watching on Gameday, so I couldn't tell how Mo was pitching, but historically any hook is a quick hook.
Joe Posnanksi just posted an interesting breakdown of the value of walks- teams with 7+ walks have posted a .715 winning percentage in the last 5 years. Which, of course, underscores what a poor job the Yankees did getting the big hit today. (Poz also discusses his contempt for the IBB, a disposition I share entirely).
On the other hand, good teams put men on base, and the Rays had 13 hits and walks to the Yanks 12.
I'll try not to let this one bother me. We'll get 'em tomorrow at 1; Garza v. Joba.