Things You'll Need:
- Computer with internet
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Step 1
Register:
Register for any Draft and Trade Fantasy Baseball League. While most leagues are free, some internet sites charge money to join. Avoid these sites. The cost outweighs any prize you could win. -
Step 2
Do Your Research:
Any true baseball fan can tell you the big names that usually crowd the top of most draft rankings. But who are the underrated or less widely known players? Who are the projected Rookies of Year? Which of last year's September call ups earned starting jobs for themselves? Answer these questions and adjust your draft order accordingly. At least two of your top ten players should be rookies or lesser known names. -
Step 3
Leave Team Loyalties on the Couch:
Yes, Cubs fans hate Cardinals and Red Sox hate Yankees, but choosing or eliminating players based on their team is a big mistake. Fantasy teams that are saturated with one club rarely win. You need variety so if your favorite team is off that day or is experiencing a major slump, your fantasy team won't suffer. Plus, why ignore great players simply because they play for the wrong team? -
Step 4
Focus on Offense:
Good pitching and defense are essential parts of any baseball team, but in the fantasy world, they are underrated. Most scoring systems have more offensive point categories than pitching categories and very few systems even acknowledge defensive. Thus, your top ten players in your draft rankings should all be position players with strong offensive numbers. -
Step 5
Use the DL:
In most leagues, teams can have one player on the Disabled List at all times. This is like having an extra roster spot. Many players have been known to begin the year on the DL and then shine when they return. Plus, injuries and slumps are part of baseball. It's a lot easier to hold a good player in your back pocket than to try to find one mid-season. -
Step 6
Stay Active and Involved All Season:
Let's face it - the baseball season is long and life gets in the way at times. However, the best fantasy managers stay involved daily. They remain aware of slumps and injuries and adjust their lineup accordingly. They aren't afraid to have platoons. Let's say, for instance, you have one player who is superior when he faces left-handed pitchers, but sub par against righties. You can bench him on those days and replace him with another decent, offensive player.
