NEW YORK – In a groundbreaking move to optimize corporate leadership, several Fortune 500 companies have begun implementing advanced fantasy baseball analytics to predict which high-ranking executives are destined to become 'busts.' The new methodology, pioneered by a consortium of data scientists and disgruntled fantasy league commissioners, aims to identify underperformers before they can inflict significant damage.

Sources close to the initiative confirm that metrics such as 'velocity decrease in strategic initiatives' and 'strikeout rate on quarterly earnings calls' are now being meticulously tracked. 'We noticed a strong correlation between a VP’s declining enthusiasm for synergy and a starting pitcher’s fastball dropping by 2 mph,' explained Dr. Evelyn Reed, head of Predictive Leadership Analytics at 'SynergyCorp.' 'It’s all about identifying the early warning signs of a multi-million dollar disappointment.'

Among the executives reportedly on the 'bust' watch list are a Chief Marketing Officer whose 'engagement metrics' have plateaued and a Head of Innovation whose 'big ideas per quarter' have dipped below replacement level. One anonymous analyst noted, 'If your C-suite is consistently swinging and missing on market trends, or their 'walk rate' on tough decisions is too high, it’s time to consider a mid-season trade.'

The program is expected to expand to middle management by next fiscal year, with 'slide deck spin rate' and 'meeting attendance consistency' being key indicators for future underperformance. Corporate HR departments are reportedly scrambling to understand why their top talent now fears being compared to a late-round draft pick with a nagging elbow injury.