Understanding the "C" # in Closer Ratings

[GlenBrummer]

I am confused by the C0-C6 closer ratings. Does a C0 means a pitcher brought in to close is tired immediately? If so, what is the difference between a C0 and a pitcher with no C rating.

Is a pitcher without a C rating immediately tired in a closer situation?

Does a pitcher always tire after reaching the number of outs in his C number. i.e., a C2 pitcher is always tired after his two outs?

If this is not autmoatic what is the formula? The Rules explanation on this on TSN site is vague. Is there a more specific explanation?

[chasenally]

As far as I understand you are correct. The no closer rating I'm not sure of in a closing role.

[HUDAMAN]

Not quite correct. In a closer situation, a C0 will tire as soon as he gives up a hit or walk. As long as he gets outs, he is not tired.

A closer rating is not the same as a save situation. A closer situation happens in the ninth inning (or later) when the trailing team has the tying run on base or at bat. When a situation becomes a closer situation, the C rating is used. Any outs already recorded by the pitcher are subtracted from the C rating, so if the pitcher is a C3, and has already recorded three outs, his C rating will be C0 once the game reaches a closer situation. A player with a C rating will never have a C rating below zero.

So, to answer your question, no C rating, immediately tired, C0, tired after giving up a hit or a walk.

The advantage of having a C6 player is that he can pitch the eighth inning, and still have three outs intact when a closer situation occurs in the ninth. A C3 can't do that.