In baseball, this role designates the pitcher who starts a game once every five games, assuming the team uses a standard five-man rotation. This individual typically pitches after the team’s top four starting pitchers have each had a turn. An example would be a pitcher who takes the mound on the fifth day of a series of games, following the scheduled starts of the teams primary rotation.
The importance of this slot lies in its ability to provide rest for the primary starting pitchers and maintain a consistent pitching schedule throughout the season. A reliable performer in this position offers depth to the pitching staff and can be critical in navigating injuries or periods of underperformance from other starters. Historically, the success of a team’s pitching rotation has often hinged on the contributions and consistency of the individual filling this role.