RELIEVERS: K-BB as a leading indicator

Last column, we discussed LIMA filters. This week, we do some very simple filtering with a leading indicator: K-BB. K-BB projections for relievers can really make some reliever targets stand out against a backdrop of obvious elite relievers such as Kenley Jansen (RHP, LA) and Craig Kimbrel (RHP, BOS), who are #1 and #2 on the list. Some of you will be surprised at who is the projected #4 reliever in K-BB, though. Here is a chart of the top five relievers for 2018 by projected K-BB:

1-5                  Sv  IP  K-BB  xERA WHIP  Dom  Cmd HR/9 BPV
=================    ==  == ====== ==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===
K.Jansen (LA)        41  65 102-10 2.17 0.78 14.1 10.2  0.7 231
C.Kimbrel (BOS)      43  65 110-22 2.19 0.88 15.2  5.0  0.8...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From Relief Pitchers

This column covers relievers who might cost you a lot chasing saves but then fizzle out because of skills or injury risk.
Mar 8 2026 3:07am
This is the annual sleepers column, but let's be honest: There are no sleepers. There are relievers with great skills who are cheaper than they should be ... and that's what you want anyway.
Mar 1 2026 3:03am
Here are your high skills relievers projected to come at a discount and earn a profit, per LIMA grades.
Feb 22 2026 3:04am
These five pens are going to figure out roles during Spring Training. Kevin Ginkel appears to be the favorite in Arizona, but let's look at the known options from a skills perspective.
Feb 15 2026 3:07am
An early February run through closers by NFBC ADP.
Feb 6 2026 3:04am

Tools