The decision for a pitcher like Mackenzie Gore to pitch just two innings in a game can be influenced by several factors:
1. **Injury Management:** If Gore has been dealing with an injury or is at risk of aggravating one, the team might limit his innings to manage his health and prevent further issues.
2. **Pitch Count:** Teams often have strict pitch count limits for pitchers to avoid overuse. If Gore reached his limit quickly due to a high number of pitches or inefficiency, he may have been pulled early.
3. **Performance Issues:** If Gore struggled with his control or effectiveness, the coaching staff might decide to pull him early to avoid further damage and give other pitchers a chance to perform better.
4. **Game Situation:** The score and overall game strategy can also play a role. If the team is losing badly or winning comfortably, the manager might opt to use different pitchers to manage the game better.
5. **Rest and Recovery:** Teams might also plan pitcher usage based on upcoming games. If Gore is scheduled to pitch again soon, limiting his innings could be part of a broader strategy to ensure he remains fresh.
6. **Manager’s Decision:** Sometimes, managerial decisions are based on matchups, game conditions, or specific strategies against the opposing team.
In summary, limiting a pitcher to just two innings can be part of a strategy to manage health, game situations, and performance, while also considering long-term pitching plans.
