Definition of a save?

[Tlaker]

Rays won their 13 in a row today to tie the record to start the year…. but my question is how did their reliever get the save when he came in the 7th with the score 9-3 in favor of the Rays? 

[Sielk]

17 minutes ago, Tlaker said:

Rays won their 13 in a row today to tie the record to start the year…. but my question is how did their reliever get the save when he came in the 7th with the score 9-3 in favor of the Rays? 

Relievers also get a save if they pitch at least three innings to close out the game (and keep the lead intact, obviously). The run differential doesn't matter in this case.

Makes no sense, if you ask me. But on the other hand, saves aren't a great stat anyway, so who cares.

[Tlaker]

Thanks very much…. has this been a long time rule?