A pitcher coming up to bat in a crucial situation is not something that happens very much anymore. It’s almost impossible in the American League. Even in the National League, it’s a very rare occurrence. However, there was a time when pitchers got at-bats in key moments.
Red Ruffing Grand Slam
On April 14, 1933, Red Ruffing got the start for the Yankees against the Red Sox. He allowed two runs in the fourth but had otherwise pitched a scoreless game. The Yankees also managed just two runs against Red Sox starter Bob Weiland.