When is the right time to take a starting pitcher out of the game? Who earns the right to stay in a game?

In the current game, it is rare for a starter to complete a game. With the availability of bullpen specialists and detailed metrics analysis on pitch counts, platoon advantages, and individual matchups, managers now opt to bring in a reliever for a starter before a starter is ready to leave.

In game 4 of the 2025 ALCS playoffs, veteran Max Scherzer all but chased his manager back to the dugout in the 5th inning with a verbal drubbing. [1] Scherzer, the winner of two World Series titles and 3 Cy Young awards had earned his right to choose his own exit and finished the inning and got 2 more outs in the 6th before leaving and winning the pivotal game 4 of the ALCS.

It's been said it's better to take someone out too early then too late. In this case the Blue Jays succeeded by letting Max Scherzer finish the 5th inning and continue on to the 6th. With a 4-run lead and Scherzer's pedigree, it wasn't too much of risk.

In the past the Red Sox have waited too long with a starter and it cost them. 

In 2003, in the 7th and final game of the ALCS against the Yankees, Pedro Martinez had a 3-run lead on the Yankees but left in to start the 8th inning and gave up 3 runs before being removed, with the Red Sox ultimately losing in 11 innings. [2]

When do you think is the right time to remove a starter?

l1] 'I Thought He Was Gonna Kill Me': Blue Jays Manager John Schneider on Mound Visit With Max Scherzer

[2] 2003 American League Championship Series (ALCS) Game 7, Boston Red Sox vs New York Yankees: October 16, 2003 | Baseball-Reference.com