In order to be credited with a shutout, a pitcher must pitch the entire game (including any extra innings) without surrendering a run.

Please consider the following:

• If a pitcher gives way to a reliever at any time, he is not eligible for a shutout. A pitcher must complete all nine innings of a regulation game in order to earn a shutout.
• A pitcher may not allow any earned OR unearned runs. You may see a pitcher complete nine full innings with an ERA of 0.00 who does not earn a shutout. It is likely he allowed an unearned run.
• A pitcher WILL earn a shutout if he is the only pitcher of record for the winning team and does not allow a run in a game shortened by rain.