Top 25 MLB stories of 2017, from Aaron Judge to Houston Strong

24. Pitchers going shorter

Bullpenning has become a way of life in the postseason, and it’s here to stay. The off days make it easier to roll out the same three or four dominant relievers in every game. The trend was not only limited to the playoffs in 2017. Starting pitchers continue to throw fewer innings than ever before.

Only 15 pitchers threw 200 innings or more last season, with Chris Sale leading the way with a pedestrian total of 214.1. Only eight pitchers threw multiple complete games. Ten years ago, 38 pitchers threw more than 200 innings and CC Sabathia led the way with over 240.

The sport as a whole is getting more specialized by the year. Relievers are throwing harder with better breaking balls and command. There aren’t many “wild things” prowling in MLB bullpens in this day and age.

Starting pitchers are still paid a premium wage because having a true ace all but guarantees a trip to the playoffs if you can support him with a semi-competent rotation and lineup. Being on the hook for upwards of $30 million per year makes general managers skittish about seeing their horses throwing 125 pitchers per outing. From an analytical standpoint, it also makes sense to limit all but the best starter to two trips through the lineup. We’re not quite to the point where a team will eschew the concept of a rotation altogether and go with a 12-man bullpen, but we’re getting closer by the year.