When I released the 2012 Starting Pitcher Guide last week, I made mention into the introductory piece that there the tiered rankings you are likely used to seeing in the guide would be part of a supplement to come out later. Later is now as I have completed the file. It is a lot different from previous years in that this year’s version includes projections for 124 starters across the AL & NL. I’ve never tackled projections before, but decided that it would be a healthy addition to the tiered rankings and give you a better handle on how well (or poorly in some cases) I think these guys will do in 2012. For the aforementioned 124 arms, there will also be an additional comment within the spreadsheet so if the 73,000 words of the guide weren’t enough, I’ve got more reading for you!
Here is a sample of the AL rankings (click for full-size)
As you can see, they are split into colored tiers with the projections and comments included. That sample shows a couple from each grouping in the AL. There are 64 names in AL who got a projection. I cut it off there because I’m not sure how useful projections are for the lower grade guys like Nick Blackburn, the uncertain playing time guys like Jacob Turner and the who-really-cares-if-they-pitch-200 IP-anyway-guys like Bruce Chen. Of the 21 names in that bottom grouping that you will see on the spreadsheet, I’m sure some of them will emerge into useful arms whether in AL-only formats or all formats, but things aren’t adding up that way right now so I focused on the most useful names (in my estimation).
Here is a sample of the NL rankings (click for full-size)
Right now, the Tiers & Projections will be available to donors only.
I’m insanely appreciative of those who donate for the work I do and I wanted to reward that generosity so once you donate through the PayPal link (also found in the upper right of the page), you will be sent the Excel file containing the information. If you’ve already donated, it should already be in your inbox. If it’s not and you believe you should have it, please let me know via email or on Twitter. If your PayPal email address isn’t where you want it sent, just let me know and I’ll make sure you get it at the proper address.
Baseball By Paul 