what is a bullpen game

A bullpen game in baseball is a strategy where a team starts a game with a relief pitcher—rather than a traditional starting pitcher—who is not expected to pitch for many innings. Instead of relying on a single starting pitcher to go deep into the game, several relief pitchers are used sequentially, each pitching for a shorter duration. This approach requires the team to use many pitchers from their bullpen to get through the game. This strategy differs from a reliever making a "spot start," where that reliever is expected to pitch multiple innings similarly to a usual starter. Bullpen games often feature an "opener," a relief pitcher who starts the game and pitches for an inning or two, with other bullpen pitchers following to cover later innings. Teams use this tactic when they lack a reliable traditional starter, want to conserve starters' arms, or need to maximize their bullpen's strengths. Bullpen games have become more popular in recent years, particularly in the 2010s, with teams like the Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays using them due to injuries or strategic choices. However, this approach can put extra stress on the bullpen and is typically used as a tactical alternative or when starters are not available or effective. In essence, a bullpen game is a game managed primarily with relief pitchers working in short stints rather than a single starting pitcher going for many innings. This method can make a game more dynamic and unpredictable. The term "bullpen" itself refers to the group of relief pitchers as well as the physical area where they warm up before entering a game.