I'm proposing we use the same Gashouse League metrics in 2012 that we used in 2011. I think they achieved their objectives (i.e., to be "basebally" and to moderate the advantage of the retirees who have the time to tweak lineups without travel and work conflicts). So? Here's the metrics for the 2012 season:
Batters Stat Categories:
Runs (R), Runs Batted In (RBI), Stolen Bases (SB), Errors (E), On-base Percentage (OBP), Slugging Percentage (SLG)
Pitchers Stat Categories:
Wins (W), Saves (SV), Strikeouts (K), Holds (HLD), Earned Run Average (ERA), (Walks + Hits)/ Innings Pitched (WHIP)
These metrics differ from a standard Yahoo 5x5 rotisserie league as follows:
1. We toss out Home Runs (HR) and Batting Average (AVG) and we add in OBP, SLG and Errors.
2. We keep standard pitchers stats and add Holds (H).
3. We add one Pitcher (P) position to the standard roster.
2. We keep standard pitchers stats and add Holds (H).
3. We add one Pitcher (P) position to the standard roster.
Why the batters stat modifications?
HR is a "counting" stat (and so, rewards the obsessive lineup packer … an advantage we want to moderate); so, we replace it with SLG, an "average" stat against which a distracted owner may better compete. We add SLG to back into OPS (On-Base plus Slugging), a more "basebally" metric than batting average. We add Errors to balance six batters categories with our six pitchers categories. Errors is a "counting" stat, but as a greater number is a negative, having this "counting" stat serves to even more moderate the advantage of the obsessive lineup packer by penalizing him with a greater likelihood of incurring Errors.
Why the pitchers stat modification?
We add Holds because it's more "basebally" to concern ourselves with middle-relief/set-up pitchers. One reason I think we all do fantasy baseball is to make us more knowledgeable fans. We get a deeper appreciation for the bullpen by adding Holds.
Why do we add a Pitcher position to the roster?
Adding Holds puts pressure on the pitching staff. We tried using Holds once while keeping the standard roster size. But, that forced managers to make a Sophie's Choice and sacrifice competition in a given category because rosters were too tight to accommodate the sixth category. (Did that make sense?)
