Yes, that's right. I love drama. From Edwin Jackson's ugly no-hitter to the shoving match in the Rays' dugout. From the Marlins' failed vuvuzuela giveaway to Jamie Moyer's celebrated 506th home run, lately baseball is a sequence of the odd and interesting.
While I gravitate to the ridiculous on the field, I am all business with my fantasy team. My team slumps don't amuse me. And neither does the current bickering match in one of my leagues over a sour trade. Is there such a thing as fantasy arbitration? How about league contraction?
If you're experiencing heartache and despair - like those with Dustin Pedroia or Chase Utley - check out these potential remedies:
Brennan Boesch - A rookie-of-the-year candidate, Boesch has impressed the Tigers since late April when he made his Major League debut. Currently batting .335 with 12 homers, 45 RBI and 26 runs. Available in 38 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Carlos Santana - Another rookie pup with major potential, it hasn't taken long for Santana to find his groove. According to Yahoo Sports, 12 of his 17 hits have gone for extra bases. Hitting .333 with 14 RBI. Available in 43 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Tom Gorzelanny - With an angry Carlos Zambrano headed to sensitivity training, Gorzelanny (I hope I spelled that right) heads to the starting rotation. He has impressive stats with a 3.41 ERA and 60 strikeouts. Doesn't walk many either (26 in 58 innings). Available in 93 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jonathan Niese - He's more impressive than his 3.84 ERA suggests. In his last five starts, he's 4-0 with a 2.67 ERA. I've been burned by him before, and apparently others have too... which explains why he's still available in 85 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Wilson Betemit - For super deep leagues, take a look at Betemit. He's in the lineup three to four days a week. If he maintains his hot bat (.480, three HRs, seven RBI in just 14 games), KC will have no choice but to play him more. Available everywhere!
Have a question for Erin Skelley? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 in Houston every Friday during the football season. And if you want more, more, more, check out Erin's blog on Fantasy Pros 911.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Kelly Johnson 2.0 recalled
Manufacturers of Kelly Johnson 2.0 have issued a recall. Unfortunately, they reinstated the older, achier and less effective 1.0 model. Warranties will not be honored.
While opening the gates with a spectacular display of power and production (.313 AVG., 9 HR and 19 RBI in April), Johnson has become um…mediocre. The question is, do you use April or May as the predictor for the next four months?
In Johnson’s case, it could be his achy-breaky back, which has kept him out of the lineup for two games. Or perhaps the slump warranted a little rest – I dunno. If you own Johnson, don’t panic – perhaps my best and most offered advice for any frustrated owner. It makes me feel all wise and Yoda-like saying it. With a little depth, you can sit him for awhile and test another second baseman (Alberto Callaspo, for instance).
My general rule of thumb is it’s good to take chances with a few of your spots, but you’ve got to have solid performers in other areas. Otherwise, your lineup becomes a guessing game, and too streaky to manage effectively. If you have Johnson, no need to dump just yet, unless you really want to roll the dice.
Here are some players to consider if you have other broken parts on your team:
Alberto Callaspo – Mentioned above, Callaspo has put together impressive numbers, posting a .313 average, 7 homers, 30 RBI and 22 runs. He has remained fairly anonymous because most Royals not named Zack Greinke are. Available in 33 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Clayton Richard – Currently on two Lil Bow Wow rosters, Richard is another player who has quietly performed well. According to Yahoo, Richard is 4-0 with a 1.97 ERA over his last four starts, with an overall 2.73 ERA. Available in 69 percent of Yahoo leagues.
John Ely – The rookie Dodger has emerged as a quality starter. Standing at 3-1, Ely is enjoying a 3.41 ERA, coupled with 28 Ks in only 31.2 innings pitched. Available in 81 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Bret Cecil – Ignore May 14 and he’s been brilliant. Currently boasting a 3.42 ERA, which is a huge accomplishment considering his octo-game on that dreaded day in May when he gave up eight earned runs. Available in 90 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Have a question for Erin Skelley? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season. And if you want more, more, more, check out Erin's blog on Fantasy Pros 911.
While opening the gates with a spectacular display of power and production (.313 AVG., 9 HR and 19 RBI in April), Johnson has become um…mediocre. The question is, do you use April or May as the predictor for the next four months?
In Johnson’s case, it could be his achy-breaky back, which has kept him out of the lineup for two games. Or perhaps the slump warranted a little rest – I dunno. If you own Johnson, don’t panic – perhaps my best and most offered advice for any frustrated owner. It makes me feel all wise and Yoda-like saying it. With a little depth, you can sit him for awhile and test another second baseman (Alberto Callaspo, for instance).
My general rule of thumb is it’s good to take chances with a few of your spots, but you’ve got to have solid performers in other areas. Otherwise, your lineup becomes a guessing game, and too streaky to manage effectively. If you have Johnson, no need to dump just yet, unless you really want to roll the dice.
Here are some players to consider if you have other broken parts on your team:
Alberto Callaspo – Mentioned above, Callaspo has put together impressive numbers, posting a .313 average, 7 homers, 30 RBI and 22 runs. He has remained fairly anonymous because most Royals not named Zack Greinke are. Available in 33 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Clayton Richard – Currently on two Lil Bow Wow rosters, Richard is another player who has quietly performed well. According to Yahoo, Richard is 4-0 with a 1.97 ERA over his last four starts, with an overall 2.73 ERA. Available in 69 percent of Yahoo leagues.
John Ely – The rookie Dodger has emerged as a quality starter. Standing at 3-1, Ely is enjoying a 3.41 ERA, coupled with 28 Ks in only 31.2 innings pitched. Available in 81 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Bret Cecil – Ignore May 14 and he’s been brilliant. Currently boasting a 3.42 ERA, which is a huge accomplishment considering his octo-game on that dreaded day in May when he gave up eight earned runs. Available in 90 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Have a question for Erin Skelley? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season. And if you want more, more, more, check out Erin's blog on Fantasy Pros 911.
Monday, May 10, 2010
My crystal ball ran out of batteries
Maybe it’s Kelly Johnson’s 10 home runs. Or is it Phil Hughes holding opposing batters to only 10 hits in four starts? Or what about the resurrection of Barry Zito, who owns a 1.49 ERA with five wins? Or Dallas Braden’s perfect game? Or what about Chad Ochocinco, who remains a contender in fantasy dancing?
Not sure which is most surprising. But no one anticipated these things.
What a fun, and unpredictable season it’s been so far. And obviously not just for fantasy reasons. The games have been really entertaining, even with no skin in the game. But you’re reading this because you care about one team in particular, your fantasy team. I have a few fantasy pickups, just for you…
Mike Leake – Cincy’s pitcher has quietly put together nice numbers. While owned in only 20 percent of Yahoo leagues, the rookie boasts a 3.10 ERA and 1.20 WHIP, with 28 Ks over 40.2 innings. He’s only given up more than three runs once this year, and it was five runs in eight innings, which isn't disastrous if it's your only blip. Get him while you can.
Starlin Castro – The young Cub made a spectacular debut, going 2-for-5 with a triple and six RBI. Certainly, he can’t maintain that. But with the plethora of decent outfielders, it’s a good position to chance. That is, if you don’t already have a solid outfield.
Jhoulys Chacin – The sophomore pitcher is gaining attention around the league for his recent performances. He’s scoreless in 15.1 innings, while striking out 16. While he’s listed as a relief pitcher, he’s currently in the Rockies starting rotation. Guess the Colorado pitcher stigma no longer exists. Owned in 20 percent of Yahoo leagues, and climbing quickly.
Chad Qualls-ity Check
Chad has broken into the 6s! His ERA currently stands at a less embarrassing 6.94. Qualls hasn’t given up a run since April 26, and hasn’t been booed since April 21 when he gave up a game-winning, three-run home run to the Cardinals’ Skip Shumaker. Keep it up, Chad. I will be charting your progress.
Draft Day
My good friend and colleague Esther and I attended the Houston Texans Draft Day Party. Here we are having fun reacting to various draft picks. For my slightly more serious reaction to the Texans first round pick, check out the video on Sports Radio 610's web site. My only regret is that producer Dan Matthews didn't zoom in more.
Not sure which is most surprising. But no one anticipated these things.
What a fun, and unpredictable season it’s been so far. And obviously not just for fantasy reasons. The games have been really entertaining, even with no skin in the game. But you’re reading this because you care about one team in particular, your fantasy team. I have a few fantasy pickups, just for you…
Mike Leake – Cincy’s pitcher has quietly put together nice numbers. While owned in only 20 percent of Yahoo leagues, the rookie boasts a 3.10 ERA and 1.20 WHIP, with 28 Ks over 40.2 innings. He’s only given up more than three runs once this year, and it was five runs in eight innings, which isn't disastrous if it's your only blip. Get him while you can.
Starlin Castro – The young Cub made a spectacular debut, going 2-for-5 with a triple and six RBI. Certainly, he can’t maintain that. But with the plethora of decent outfielders, it’s a good position to chance. That is, if you don’t already have a solid outfield.
Jhoulys Chacin – The sophomore pitcher is gaining attention around the league for his recent performances. He’s scoreless in 15.1 innings, while striking out 16. While he’s listed as a relief pitcher, he’s currently in the Rockies starting rotation. Guess the Colorado pitcher stigma no longer exists. Owned in 20 percent of Yahoo leagues, and climbing quickly.
Chad Qualls-ity Check
Chad has broken into the 6s! His ERA currently stands at a less embarrassing 6.94. Qualls hasn’t given up a run since April 26, and hasn’t been booed since April 21 when he gave up a game-winning, three-run home run to the Cardinals’ Skip Shumaker. Keep it up, Chad. I will be charting your progress.
Draft Day
My good friend and colleague Esther and I attended the Houston Texans Draft Day Party. Here we are having fun reacting to various draft picks. For my slightly more serious reaction to the Texans first round pick, check out the video on Sports Radio 610's web site. My only regret is that producer Dan Matthews didn't zoom in more.
Have a question for Erin Skelley? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season. And if you want more, more, more, check out Erin's blog on Fantasy Pros 911.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Hanging Chad
I did call him a sleeper. But that’s still an endorsement as much as I tried to couch it as a cross-your-fingers kind of pick. The lack of competition in Arizona has given Chad Qualls an unlimited amount of chances. And outside of Little League, I can’t think of any closers with a 10-plus ERA. But he did record his third save of the season on Friday, lowering his ERA to 10.29. This is progress, Qualls owners. If you haven’t dropped him yet, hang on. This could pay off.
Note: Clearly I wrote that paragraph prior to Monday when Old Chad made an appearance, allowing three base runners on two hits and a walk in just one inning. While he earned the save, he did allow one earned run for a 9.00 ERA. The conclusion I draw here: play him every other day. Just make sure you pick the right day. Or perhaps you have the league settings changed to ignore ERA. Your choice.
Here are a few other notable players worth watching, or adding, if you have roster room:
Kelly Johnson – Six home runs got my attention. With very little homer history, is this a fluke? As the league leader in HRs, he also boasts 10 RBI, while batting .321. Too bad he’s on the Diamondbacks. Just imagine how good he’d be if Qualls could pitch to him. Available in 48 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Wade LeBlanc – This may be only a short-term fix, but his stats are so impressive it may be hard for the Padres to part with him even after Chris Young returns. In two outings, LeBlanc has surrendered just one run over 11 innings. And get this – no walks. Yet, he has 10 strikeouts. Available in 97 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Chris Young – Speaking of Young, he’s owned in only 24 percent of Yahoo leagues. Claim him, and store him on your DL. It’s just a little right shoulder inflammation, so I think he’s worth trying. And actually, in the little action he saw early this season, he performed respectfully – six innings, no runs, one hit, five strikeouts and three walks.
Ted Lily – Another bruised veteran who could improve your pitching staff, Lily just returned from the DL. In his first start back, he earned the win, throwing six shutout innings, striking out four, while yielding three hits and two walks. Not a bad return. Available in 39 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Fantasy Pros 911
Beginning today, I start blogging for Fantasy Pros 911. I’ll continue my Fantasy Girl blog, and my appearances on Sports Radio 610's morning show. Who else is going to manage Vandermeer’s team?
Fantasy Pros is a great resource for the serious fantasy fan. Of course, my columns are anything but serious…so let’s hope my editors don’t catch on to that. While my articles will publish every Tuesday, please visit the site every day and several times a day so I can take full credit for an increase in web hits. Thanks for your cooperation.
Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season. And if you want more, more, more, check out Erin's blog on Fantasy Pros 911.
Note: Clearly I wrote that paragraph prior to Monday when Old Chad made an appearance, allowing three base runners on two hits and a walk in just one inning. While he earned the save, he did allow one earned run for a 9.00 ERA. The conclusion I draw here: play him every other day. Just make sure you pick the right day. Or perhaps you have the league settings changed to ignore ERA. Your choice.
Here are a few other notable players worth watching, or adding, if you have roster room:
Kelly Johnson – Six home runs got my attention. With very little homer history, is this a fluke? As the league leader in HRs, he also boasts 10 RBI, while batting .321. Too bad he’s on the Diamondbacks. Just imagine how good he’d be if Qualls could pitch to him. Available in 48 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Wade LeBlanc – This may be only a short-term fix, but his stats are so impressive it may be hard for the Padres to part with him even after Chris Young returns. In two outings, LeBlanc has surrendered just one run over 11 innings. And get this – no walks. Yet, he has 10 strikeouts. Available in 97 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Chris Young – Speaking of Young, he’s owned in only 24 percent of Yahoo leagues. Claim him, and store him on your DL. It’s just a little right shoulder inflammation, so I think he’s worth trying. And actually, in the little action he saw early this season, he performed respectfully – six innings, no runs, one hit, five strikeouts and three walks.
Ted Lily – Another bruised veteran who could improve your pitching staff, Lily just returned from the DL. In his first start back, he earned the win, throwing six shutout innings, striking out four, while yielding three hits and two walks. Not a bad return. Available in 39 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Fantasy Pros 911
Beginning today, I start blogging for Fantasy Pros 911. I’ll continue my Fantasy Girl blog, and my appearances on Sports Radio 610's morning show. Who else is going to manage Vandermeer’s team?
Fantasy Pros is a great resource for the serious fantasy fan. Of course, my columns are anything but serious…so let’s hope my editors don’t catch on to that. While my articles will publish every Tuesday, please visit the site every day and several times a day so I can take full credit for an increase in web hits. Thanks for your cooperation.
Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season. And if you want more, more, more, check out Erin's blog on Fantasy Pros 911.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
I'm back!
Try going two days without an Internet connection. Add to that, no TV. I’m not embarrassed to say that a house feels empty without a TV on. I suffered several painstaking days feeling excommunicated from the world and from my teams, as I spent the entire week moving into my new home.
I feel guilty for neglecting my teams. It’s hard to make time for scouring the waiver wire when you’ve just spent half a day assembling a closet system (unsuccessfully). And I wasn’t thinking about add/drops or trades as I used the wrong color paint for touchups.
The timing has been terrible too...although I guess there’s never a right time to completely uproot and bubblewrap your life. Not only do I have three fantasy baseball teams, but I was in a close battle for a fantasy basketball championship. Somehow I prevailed without Chris Bosh, and without my full attention. Honestly, I can’t even remember which scrub I added in his place. I would look it up, but I’m saving my energy to get the paint out of my hair.
Needless to say, I’ve been a little distracted. I have just re-introduced myself to my teams. Two are going to be just fine. One is already on life support. I’ll save that for another blog.
Here are a few players I found who are available in most Yahoo leagues. When you’re done claiming them, feel free to help me unpack my boxes. Or better yet, surprise me, and mow my yard. I won’t mind.
Jaime Garcia – The starting pitcher for the 20-inning Cards-Mets game, Garcia pitched seven scoreless innings, surrendering only one hit and two walks. After Saturday’s contest, he lowered his ERA and WHIP to 0.69 and 0.77 respectively. As you guessed, he got a no-decision Saturday.
Casey Blake – The Dodgers third baseman is starting the season with a hot bat, boasting a .353 average, six RBI, three runs and one home run. Available in 42 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Casey McGehee – Undrafted in most leagues, McGehee has been a nice surprise to the Brewers and those who’ve claimed him. Batting .366 with 4 home runs and 9 RBI, McGehee is still available in 32 percent of Yahoo leagues. Eligible at second and third base.
David Huff – Only owned in 2 percent of Yahoo leagues, Huff notched his first career complete game on Thursday for Cleveland. Currently holds a 1.80 ERA with an 0.87 WHIP and five strikeouts.
Dana Eveland – While only the No. 5 pitcher for Oakland, he’s put together ace-like numbers so far with two wins, a 1.35 ERA and 0.98 WHIP. Also only owned in 2 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Tyler Clippard - Not a big fan of middle relievers, but take a look at Clippard as he’s getting a lot of opportunities with the Nationals. Clippard already boasts 8.2 innings, along with 9 strikeouts and an impressive 1.04 ERA and WHIP. Has only served 2 walks. Available in 72 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season.
I feel guilty for neglecting my teams. It’s hard to make time for scouring the waiver wire when you’ve just spent half a day assembling a closet system (unsuccessfully). And I wasn’t thinking about add/drops or trades as I used the wrong color paint for touchups.
The timing has been terrible too...although I guess there’s never a right time to completely uproot and bubblewrap your life. Not only do I have three fantasy baseball teams, but I was in a close battle for a fantasy basketball championship. Somehow I prevailed without Chris Bosh, and without my full attention. Honestly, I can’t even remember which scrub I added in his place. I would look it up, but I’m saving my energy to get the paint out of my hair.
Needless to say, I’ve been a little distracted. I have just re-introduced myself to my teams. Two are going to be just fine. One is already on life support. I’ll save that for another blog.
Here are a few players I found who are available in most Yahoo leagues. When you’re done claiming them, feel free to help me unpack my boxes. Or better yet, surprise me, and mow my yard. I won’t mind.
Jaime Garcia – The starting pitcher for the 20-inning Cards-Mets game, Garcia pitched seven scoreless innings, surrendering only one hit and two walks. After Saturday’s contest, he lowered his ERA and WHIP to 0.69 and 0.77 respectively. As you guessed, he got a no-decision Saturday.
Casey Blake – The Dodgers third baseman is starting the season with a hot bat, boasting a .353 average, six RBI, three runs and one home run. Available in 42 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Casey McGehee – Undrafted in most leagues, McGehee has been a nice surprise to the Brewers and those who’ve claimed him. Batting .366 with 4 home runs and 9 RBI, McGehee is still available in 32 percent of Yahoo leagues. Eligible at second and third base.
David Huff – Only owned in 2 percent of Yahoo leagues, Huff notched his first career complete game on Thursday for Cleveland. Currently holds a 1.80 ERA with an 0.87 WHIP and five strikeouts.
Dana Eveland – While only the No. 5 pitcher for Oakland, he’s put together ace-like numbers so far with two wins, a 1.35 ERA and 0.98 WHIP. Also only owned in 2 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Tyler Clippard - Not a big fan of middle relievers, but take a look at Clippard as he’s getting a lot of opportunities with the Nationals. Clippard already boasts 8.2 innings, along with 9 strikeouts and an impressive 1.04 ERA and WHIP. Has only served 2 walks. Available in 72 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Happy Opening Day!
If I weren’t so excited that Opening Day had finally arrived, I might be more annoyed by my three pitchers who just landed on the DL. But it’s ok, I’m oozing with optimism. It’s Opening Day, and the Astros are still in contention.
If you haven’t looked at your roster since your draft, now’s a good time to review it. Here are a few considerations to fill any pitching holes in your lineup. And if you have Yankees or Red Sox, sorry bud. Should have set that this morning.
Ryan Rowland-Smith – I think he’s worth the risk, as he’ll own the No. 3 spot for the Mariners. Despite his last outing on Friday when he surrendered five runs to the Rockies in 4.3, he looked pretty good this spring. He exercises good control and will positively impact your WHIP. And he wears really cool glasses. Available in 54 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jonathan Niese – Super sleeper pick here, with obvious risk. But if you have a lot of gimpy pitchers or are in an NL-only league, don’t laugh at this suggestion. Niese will hold one of the starting spots for the Mets. Available everywhere.
Paul Maholm – I’m a fan once again of the trusty Pirate. He’ll get you innings pitched and an ERA in the low 4s. And there’s upside here as there are rumors the Pirates would consider trading him. Available in 74 percent of Yahoo leagues.
What? American League Only?
Last year I made the bold move and agreed to manage a second team (shown here drafting last week). I earned a World Series berth in one league. I didn’t even make the playoffs in the other, despite my repeated add/drops. Clearly not challenged enough, I joined a third league this year. And it’s a doozie: American League only, auction-style, keeper league. Too many adjectives. And the benches are super-crazy deep so you’re reaching for eighth graders to fill your roster. For the first time I ever, I felt “draft dumb.” I have players I’ve never heard of, yet I’m more nervous about my players I have heard of. I must schedule a meet-and-greet.
This Mensa-like league is called Jed Wars, a spinoff of Fantasyland’s movie in which an amateur, Jed Latkin, joins an experts-only league. This season, Jed has invited some industry experts and regular fantasy geeks, including me to play in a cut-throat, win-at-all-costs league. You can follow our progress and view our video segments on fantasylandfilm.com. If you’re on Facebook, you can “fan” it.
Good luck to everyone's fantasy teams this season...unless you're in my league.
Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season.
If you haven’t looked at your roster since your draft, now’s a good time to review it. Here are a few considerations to fill any pitching holes in your lineup. And if you have Yankees or Red Sox, sorry bud. Should have set that this morning.
Ryan Rowland-Smith – I think he’s worth the risk, as he’ll own the No. 3 spot for the Mariners. Despite his last outing on Friday when he surrendered five runs to the Rockies in 4.3, he looked pretty good this spring. He exercises good control and will positively impact your WHIP. And he wears really cool glasses. Available in 54 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jonathan Niese – Super sleeper pick here, with obvious risk. But if you have a lot of gimpy pitchers or are in an NL-only league, don’t laugh at this suggestion. Niese will hold one of the starting spots for the Mets. Available everywhere.
Paul Maholm – I’m a fan once again of the trusty Pirate. He’ll get you innings pitched and an ERA in the low 4s. And there’s upside here as there are rumors the Pirates would consider trading him. Available in 74 percent of Yahoo leagues.
What? American League Only?
Last year I made the bold move and agreed to manage a second team (shown here drafting last week). I earned a World Series berth in one league. I didn’t even make the playoffs in the other, despite my repeated add/drops. Clearly not challenged enough, I joined a third league this year. And it’s a doozie: American League only, auction-style, keeper league. Too many adjectives. And the benches are super-crazy deep so you’re reaching for eighth graders to fill your roster. For the first time I ever, I felt “draft dumb.” I have players I’ve never heard of, yet I’m more nervous about my players I have heard of. I must schedule a meet-and-greet.This Mensa-like league is called Jed Wars, a spinoff of Fantasyland’s movie in which an amateur, Jed Latkin, joins an experts-only league. This season, Jed has invited some industry experts and regular fantasy geeks, including me to play in a cut-throat, win-at-all-costs league. You can follow our progress and view our video segments on fantasylandfilm.com. If you’re on Facebook, you can “fan” it.
Good luck to everyone's fantasy teams this season...unless you're in my league.
Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Closing time
Oh, to have the job of the closer. Think about how great and unfair this job is. Your peers pitch 10-15 innings per week. You pitch two. Because you are the closer. You can eat, drink, and probably even smoke in the bullpen. You are the closer. You are the couch potato of the staff. But that’s ok. You are the closer. Head cases, nut jobs and flakes are not only accepted in this role, but often encouraged. Because you, my friend, are the closer.
I am trying to imagine myself as a closer in a normal office environment. I would work one hour a day, at most. I would grow a gut, wear sweatpants, and eat and slurp during meetings. I would sit in the corner, distracted by anything, everything. And as I finally speak up, my colleagues would go hysterical. And whatever I say solves all the company’s problems. That is, if I avoid taking on Albert Pujols.
With my great admiration for closers, this may surprise you: I think closers are overrated. Especially in fantasy. Just not enough innings to make a difference. I realize they have a high propensity for strkeouts. But one inning at a time, compared to five, six or seven from a starter. So that really only leaves you with the save category they can impact in a big way. My advice to you – draft your closers late. Save your high picks for players who will produce on a more regular basis.
That said, you still need a closer. Here are some sleepers you can draft late, very late.
Joakim Soria – Don’t let the Royals brand dissuade you. Soria will produce. Obviously, you want your closers on winning teams. But losers get saves too. And not only will Soria earn you a fare amount of saves, he’ll get a ton of strikeouts.
Rafael Soriano – The Rays new closer is just one more example of good closers available in late rounds. Not a top prospect, but should get you 30+ saves this year. His WHIP and strikeouts should yield you nice numbers as well.
Chad Qualls – I said sleeper! Qualls is better than you think, despite the 11ish Spring Training ERA. I realize he also dislocated his kneecap last year. But he’s recovered, and the Diammondbacks will count on him heavily this year.
Papi-razzi
Look at the David Ortiz look-a-like working as a bouncer at a Houston bar. Naturally, I asked if he would draft himself in fantasy baseball this year. He didn’t play along with me. Maybe I’d lose my sense of humor too if my draft value had plummeted. Ironic that Big Papi is checking IDs when he’s accused of doctoring his birth certificate…
Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season.
I am trying to imagine myself as a closer in a normal office environment. I would work one hour a day, at most. I would grow a gut, wear sweatpants, and eat and slurp during meetings. I would sit in the corner, distracted by anything, everything. And as I finally speak up, my colleagues would go hysterical. And whatever I say solves all the company’s problems. That is, if I avoid taking on Albert Pujols.
With my great admiration for closers, this may surprise you: I think closers are overrated. Especially in fantasy. Just not enough innings to make a difference. I realize they have a high propensity for strkeouts. But one inning at a time, compared to five, six or seven from a starter. So that really only leaves you with the save category they can impact in a big way. My advice to you – draft your closers late. Save your high picks for players who will produce on a more regular basis.
That said, you still need a closer. Here are some sleepers you can draft late, very late.
Joakim Soria – Don’t let the Royals brand dissuade you. Soria will produce. Obviously, you want your closers on winning teams. But losers get saves too. And not only will Soria earn you a fare amount of saves, he’ll get a ton of strikeouts.
Rafael Soriano – The Rays new closer is just one more example of good closers available in late rounds. Not a top prospect, but should get you 30+ saves this year. His WHIP and strikeouts should yield you nice numbers as well.
Chad Qualls – I said sleeper! Qualls is better than you think, despite the 11ish Spring Training ERA. I realize he also dislocated his kneecap last year. But he’s recovered, and the Diammondbacks will count on him heavily this year.
Papi-razzi
Look at the David Ortiz look-a-like working as a bouncer at a Houston bar. Naturally, I asked if he would draft himself in fantasy baseball this year. He didn’t play along with me. Maybe I’d lose my sense of humor too if my draft value had plummeted. Ironic that Big Papi is checking IDs when he’s accused of doctoring his birth certificate…Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy football advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning during the football season.
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