Here are some fun facts to consider as we move toward final 2012 rosters.
IP Requirements
In 2011, the average total for IP was 1456, which is exactly 9.0 innings per game.
However, team totals ranged from 1434 (ELY) to 1493 (SFE). Better teams tend to pitch more innings because you have to pitch at least 9 innings to win, whereas losing on the road may take only 8.
Of course, extra inning games will have some impact on IP totals, but those are far less predictable.
Keep in mind that unlimited usage is a theoretical concept and such players are actually limited by fatigue and rest rules.
Also, it can be very difficult to max out usage for every single pitcher, particularly if there are some who you don't want to see that often.
In conclusion, I recommend having at least 1500 IP available, more if you don't want to manage usage so closely.
In 2011, the average total for PA was 6,230 or 38.5 per game.
Team totals ranged from 6,025 (ROM) all the way up to 6,608 (SFE) again.
Although winning at home may not require PA in the 9th, the bigger factor here is that better offenses will consume more PA.
Once again, those unpredictable extra inning games will have an impact.
Unlimited batters also have limits, in their case by injuries, position eligibility, and even batting order placement. In an average game, only the top 1-3 in the order get a 5th PA, which adds up over time.
It can also be very hard to max out your available PA if you have a surplus at certain positions with shortages at others. Average usage comes out to about 700 PA per position.
With almost 600 PA between the top and bottom team, it's harder to provide a standard target for this one. However, 6,500 is a nice round number that should be enough for the weaker offenses if they manage them wisely. Only the SFE juggernaut used more than that last season. There's no penalty for underusage (other than team morale), so having more can't hurt.
Thus concludes today's Public Service Announcement. If you choose to ignore it, YOC will enjoy collecting your fines.
