What Is It Called When a Baseball Game Ends Early?
Baseball games can end early for a variety of reasons—rain, darkness, or a team winning by a large margin. When they do, the game is said to be “called.” This means that the umpires have determined that the conditions are too unfavorable for the game to continue. Depending on the specifics of the situation, a game can be called in favor of one team or the other, or it can be declared a tie.
When Can a Baseball Game Be Called?
There are a variety of conditions that can cause a baseball game to be called. The most common reasons are:
- Rain: If the field becomes too wet or unsafe for play due to rain, the umpires can call the game.
- Darkness: If the stadium lights go out or it becomes too dark to play, the game can be called.
- Mercy Rule: If one team is ahead by a large margin, the umpires can call the game.
What Happens When a Game Is Called?
When a game is called, the umpires will declare the game over. The team that is ahead at that point will be declared the winner. If the score is tied, the game will be declared a tie. If the game is called due to weather, the game will typically be resumed at a later date.
What Is the Mercy Rule?
The Mercy Rule, also known as the “slaughter rule” is a rule that states that if one team is ahead by a large margin, the umpires can call the game. This rule is designed to prevent teams from running up the score and embarrassing their opponents. The specifics of the rule vary from league to league.
How Is the Mercy Rule Enforced?
The enforcement of the Mercy Rule is left to the discretion of the umpires. Generally, the umpires will wait until the end of a full inning before determining if the game should be called due to the Mercy Rule. If the umpires determine that the game should be called, they will declare the game over and the team that is ahead at that point will be declared the winner.
What Is the Difference Between a Called Game and a Forfeit?
A called game is different from a forfeit in that the umpires are the ones who make the decision to call the game. A forfeit occurs when one team is unable or unwilling to complete the game. This can be due to a violation of league rules, or due to a team simply not showing up to the game.
What Is the Difference Between a Tie and a Called Game?
A tie is different from a called game in that the game is not officially declared over when it ends in a tie. Instead, the game will be resumed at a later date and the teams will complete the game at that time.
Do Any Leagues Have Special Rules for Called Games?
Yes, some leagues have special rules for called games. For example, the National League has a special rule that states that if a game is called due to rain after four innings, the game will be declared official and the team that is ahead at that point will be declared the winner.
What Are the Financial Implications of a Called Game?
The financial implications of a called game depend on the specific league and the circumstances of the game. Generally, if the game is called due to weather, the teams will be paid in full and the game will be rescheduled. If the game is called due to a Mercy Rule, the teams will typically not be paid and the game will not be rescheduled.
Conclusion
When a baseball game ends early, it is said to be “called.” This can occur due to rain, darkness, or the Mercy Rule. The umpires make the decision to call the game, and the game can be ended in favor of one team or the other, or it can be declared a tie. The financial implications of a called game depend on the specific league and the circumstances of the game.