The (unwritten) rule we are talking about is a "courtesy" clause, secretly attached to every baseball game that binds, Players & Managers to this 'rule':

Unwritten Rule 23.2D: "If you are kicking the crap out of an opponent, you willingly agree (Managers) to unwillingly (Players) "Give Up At-Bats" to help finish the ballgame. The trailing team is allowed to bring in a position player to pitch, in which you must try even less... Oh and absolutely, NO SWINGING ON 3-0 PITCHES, unless you make an out." 

PENALTY: Managers are allowed to openly criticize you for being successful/producing and the other team gets to throw at you in your next at bat against them. (See Examples Below)...

..(3.5 games back of the Giants).  This, has Dodger Nation wondering, "What the hell is going on?" 

The Dogers - (See what we did there..ha) Have had to watch their winning ways take a nosedive as well.  Coming into last weekend & before the airing of the Oh-So Important...