2024 Content Plan
Like the Astros, I'm looking for ways to improve
In this house, we’re already counting down to Opening Day and while I can’t wait for it to get here, I’m also working on trying out ideas for additional content and feel like there’s not enough time.
As I am wont to do, I asked those on Twitter and who read here what they wanted to see, in a general sense.
81% of voters wanted something in addition to the Astros and that fits with what I did last season, focusing heavily on the Astros, but also including projected AL West Standings almost every day and Projected MLB Standings more frequently as pennant races heated up.
I’m still working through what I think I can deliver while being efficient, engaging, and providing data without overwhelming readers with numbers.
Below is a tentative list of items planned for the coming season, some the same/similar to last season, some new, some still in concept form.
I haven’t decided if any will be for only paying members, but that’s a possibility.
Astros Projections - It’s our namesake and the original reason for this site. We’ll continue the daily updates in 2024. These were hit and/or miss, but the goal is not to be perfect, that’s impossible. The goal is to set and maintain realistic expectations (both good and not-so-good), especially during extended hot or cold streaks.
MLB Projected Standings - This is where we shine. It’s not forward-looking, but it does give you a much better gauge of a team’s performance and potential than run differential alone. I plan on doing a post at some point this winter to explain why this system is better. For now, read the “Numbers” section on this post for the Cliffs Notes.
Luck Rankings - Another area in which we shine. I used this formula last December to pick three teams that would improve in 2023 and I was 2 for 3, with those two being the Rangers and Diamondbacks. There’s nowhere to go but down, but it’s still fun.
I’m working on developing a formula to gauge stress on a pitcher. As we all know, 10 pitches in a 10-0 game is not the same as 10 pitches in a 5-4 game with the bases loaded in the 9th. I’ve done some research and am looking at ways to measure relative stress. I understand this has been done before in various ways, but what I’m planning will be unique. Once we have details we can use the results to analyze taking a pitcher out or leaving him in, etc. This could potentially be expanded to include all of MLB.
Audio content of some kind. People consume content in different ways and while I hesitate to commit to another podcast, I can upload audio to this site without all the bells and whistles of a podcast (which means less or 0 production time which is a drain). This is something I’m considering (see “Other Projects” below).
More written analysis. I threw a few words in each day along with updated projections, but I intend to include additional analysis more frequently in 2024. How this develops is TBD.
Other Projects:
(1) I’m currently contributing to BetSided, which is Fansided’s site for betting content. The intent is for me to be heavily involved in MLB coverage so you can support me by clicking on those articles if they are of interest to you. I’ll link to them here if they’re relevant.
(2) I’m developing a yet-to-be-named podcast on MLB focusing on the crazier side of the game. Crazy stories, wild statistical anomalies, one-game wonders and the like. It’s something that my son and I share a passion for and I can’t wait to make it happen. If you’re into that kind of thing, you can support this site by downloading, listening and sharing. I’ll link to the podcast when it’s live.
If you have any ideas for content or something you’d like to see or hear, please reach out and let me know.
I appreciate all of those who support, subscribe and read the articles.
It drives me to keep going, add content and move forward.