The challenge of reaching innings minimums

This is my weekly piece from ESPN Insider.

Back in 2010, there were 45 starting pitchers who threw at least 200 innings, led by Roy Halladay with 250.2. At the end of that list were journeymen like Jon Garland and Rodrigo Lopez. Even they managed to throw 200 innings.

By 2015, the number of 200-innning hurlers had dropped to 28. One year later, it plummeted further, to 15. In 2017, there were just 15 pitchers once again who eclipsed 200 innings, let by Chris Sale (pictured) with 214.1.

Injuries, relief specialization and the increasing practice . . .

This page is partially restricted for paid members only. If you would like to get full access please become a full member of BABSbaseball.com.