You get a pitty-prize (as I call it) if you're on a losing streak. Every time you get 3rd place, you get a small, stacking bonus to PvP EXP and Wolf Marks until your next win. Something around 10% bonus per loss, and I think it goes up to 50% total. 2nd place losses are effected by this bonus but do not progress it. 1st place wins are also effected by the bonus, but then reset it back to 0%.