Fantasy Baseball

BY ADAM RONIS

Many people project Brandon Lyon to be the first closer to lose his job after a terrible spring, but he retired the side in order with two strikeouts today in a 4-2 win over the Reds. Lyon isn't a strikeout pitcher and I wouldn't be confident in him. Tony Pena and Chad Qualls, possible replacements, each pitched a scoreless inning with a strikeout.

The Royals bullpen did an excellent job today against a potent Tigers lineup as Brett Tomko, Leo Nunez and Joakim Soria combined to throw five scoreless innings in a 5-4 11-inning win. The Tigers bullpen will be a problem with Joel Zumaya and Fernando Rodney injured. Denny Bautista took the loss today. He throws hard, but doesn't have great control. He allowed three hits and two walks in two innings.

I am a huge Ben Sheets fan, but this is the first year in quite some time I don't own him. His health issues gave me an ulcer. Now, he will probably have a great year. Sheets was great today in a 4-3 win over the Cubs in 10 innings and it was even more encouraging that he came back on a cold, wet day following a rain delay, which surprised me. He went 6 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing two hits, two walks with seven strikeouts. If he gets off to a great start, I would sell high.

Carlos Zambrano also pitched well, but left in the seventh inning with cramps in his right forearm and is day-to-day. He allowed three hits, one walk, no runs and struck out five in 6 1/3 innings. The story of this game was the closers. Kerry Wood allowed three runs in the ninth. I've said all spring Carlos Marmol is the Cubs' best reliever. He struck out three in 1 1/3 scoreless innings. Bobby Howry took the loss in the 10th. Wood will get the chance to close, but his penchant for not staying healthy could land Marmol the job. Either way, Marmol should be owned.

Eric Gagne matched Wood in the bottom of the ninth, struggling with his control and allowed a three-run tying homer on a 3-1 pitch to Kasuke Fukodume, who had three hits. David Riske pitched the 10th for the save. He is likely next in line for saves should Gagne falter.

Brad Lidge should be salivating to take the mound after Tom Gordon surrendered five runs in the ninth in an 11-6 loss to the Nationals. Lastings Milledge went 2-for-4 with a home run and will be a solid fantasy player this season.

Rays catcher Dioner Navarro went 3-for-4 with a run and RBI. I touted him as a sleeper earlier this month and he should be owned in all leagues that start two catchers.

The Giants lineup makes me sick. I'd rather watch the Brooklyn Cyclones play. The Giants will be a boring team to watch, except when Matt Cain and Tim Lincecum pitch. The Giants need to play the young players and forget Ray Durham and Dave Roberts.

I took Jim Thome in the 10th round of my NFBC draft and he hit two two-run homers today. Obviously, health is the question, but if he does healthy, he should hit 30 HRs. I targeted Franklin Gutierrez in all my drafts and came up empty. He went 3-for-3 with a homer and three RBIs. He should be owned in most leagues.

Victor Martinez left the game with a hamstring injury and will be sent for an MRI. He is day-to-day. This is why taking catchers early is risky. Catchers are more prone for injury than other position players. A typical Joe Borowski performance today. He allowed a run, but got the save.

Back with more later on the night games.

BY ADAM RONIS

Nationals outfielder Elijah Dukes received the opportunity to play when Wily Mo Pena got injured during the spring. Now, Dukes is on the disabled list, too. Dukes was placed on the 15-day DL after leaving tonight's game against the Braves with a tight right hamstring. Dukes has been bothered by a sore hamstring the past few weeks that forced him to miss some games. The Nationals recalled pitcher Chris Schroeder. Willie Harris is expected to play leftfield.

BY ADAM RONIS

Nationals reliever Chad Cordero didn't come into the ninth inning tonight in a save situation because of right shoulder tendinitis. Jon Rauch came into pitch the ninth inning. Cordero is day-to-day and Rauch should be owned in NL-only leagues and deep mixed leagues already.

BY ADAM RONIS

I wasn't aware that Joe Torre was a fantasy player, but he must have read my print edition column today when I said if it was based on spring training performance, Juan Pierre deserved to be glued to the bench. Pierre has a $44 million contract and was awful in the spring, while Andre Ethier was phenomenal. Pierre will get time, so keep a close eye on this situation. Ethier is an excellent option in NL-only leagues and deep mixed leagues. Kemp, Ethier and Pierre could all split time in the corner outfield spots this season.

BY ADAM RONIS

AL EAST: Red Sox
AL CENTRAL: Indians
AL WEST: Angels
AL WILD CARD: Yankees

NL EAST: Mets
NL CENTRAL: Brewers
NL WEST: Dodgers
NL WILD CARD: Braves

WORLD SERIES: Indians over Dodgers

AL MVP: David Ortiz
AL CY YOUNG: Felix Hernandez

NL MVP: Prince Fielder
NL CY YOUNG: Johan Santana

Your thoughts?

BY ADAM RONIS

Eugenio Velez is having a terrific spring for the Giants. The problem is finding him a position. He has struggled defensively at second base and third base and the Giants have tried him in the outfield where he played 66 games in the minors last season. He stole two more bases today and has 16 in the spring to go along with a .293 average. This kid is real fast and will steal a ton of bases if he gets time. I'd take him in an NL-only league and think about taking him in a deep mixed league. With so many veterans on a team that has no chance to win, Velez should play everyday at some point.

BY ADAM RONIS

If you drafted Mike Cameron in a NL-only league and need to fill his spot during his 25-game suspension, take a chance on Tony Gwynn Jr. He hit .382 with six steals this spring and will get playing time with Cameron out.

BY ADAM RONIS

You have seen a few of my teams. Now it's time to see your teams. Post your teams and give a brief analysis. I'll give mine.

BY ADAM RONIS

Back on March 11 when I unveiled my catcher rankings, I selected Arizona catcher Chris Snyder as undervalued. He's starting to get some more attention after a great spring, especially now that the job will be his full-time to start the season with Miguel Montero injured. He is 27 and had 13 homers and 47 RBIs in just 326 at-bats last year. Snyder had a great second half hitting .291 with six home runs and 31 RBIs. If you pass on catchers early, Snyder is a good late-round pick.

BY ADAM RONIS

Twins lefthander Francisco Liriano will start the season in the minor leagues. He'll start in Single-A and then make one more minor league start before getting called up to the majors. It might take some time for him to perform well, so temper your expectations early in the season.

BY ADAM RONIS

1. Alex Rodriguez
2. David Wright
3. Jose Reyes
4. Matt Holliday
5. Hanley Ramirez
6. Jimmy Rollins
7. Miguel Cabrera
8. Chase Utley
9. Ryan Howard
10. Prince Fielder
11. David Ortiz
12. Ryan Braun
13. Mark Teixeira
14. Alfonso Soriano
15. Grady Sizemore
16. Albert Pujols
17. Brandon Phillips
18. Carl Crawford
19. Johan Santana
20. Carlos Beltran
21. B.J. Upton
22. Vladimir Guerrero
23. Carlos Lee
24. Lance Berkman
25. Ichiro Suzuki
26. Manny Ramirez
27. Alex Rios
28. Aramis Ramirez
29. Derrek Lee
30. Justin Morneau
31. Adam Dunn
32. Travis Hafner
33. Jake Peavy
34. Magglio Ordonez
35. Corey Hart
36. Nick Markakis
37. Garrett Atkins
38. Hunter Pence
39. Brian Roberts
40. Troy Tulowitzki
41. Carlos Guillen
42. Chris Young (OF)
43. Ian Kinsler
44. Rafael Furcal
45. Chone Figgins
46. Bobby Abreu
47. Curtis Granderson
48. Brandon Webb
49. Russell Martin
50. Victor Martinez

Your opinions?

BY ADAM RONIS

People spend a lot of time coming up with creative names for their fantasy teams. Lets see what you got. Post a comment with your best fantasy team name.

BY ADAM RONIS

On most occasions, when a pitcher switches from the American Legaue to the National League, it's a good thing. But that's not always the case and sometimes people automatically pencil in better numbers in these situations. Remember Barry Zito?

Well, Dan Haren is the guy this year. Haren is a good pitcher, but lets not get crazy. Arizona is a good ballpark to hit in and the Diamondbacks aren't exactly a powerhouse offense. They did get outscored last season. Haren has been durable starting 34 games in three consecutive seasons. He surrenders a lot of hits, but doesn't walk many. He went 15-9 with a 192/55 K/BB ratio with a 3.07 ERA and 1.21 WHIP.

Haren wasn't good after the All-Star break, going 5-6 with a 4.15 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and .298 average against. In every draft I have been in, he goes before Harang, which I totally disagree with.

Lets look at Harang, who has started at least 28 games in four consecutive seasons. Last season he started 34 games, went 16-6 threw 231 2/3 innings, allowed 213 hits, walked 52 and struck out 218 with a 3.73 ERA and 1.14 WHIP and had a .242 BAA. He did this in a hitters' paradise. Harang actually got stronger in the second half with a 106/17 K/BB ratio in 104 innings.

I'll take Harang before Haren.

BY ADAM RONIS

Here are the players I like a lot this year and targeted in drafts. I won't pick the obvious ones.

Nick Markakis
Corey Hart
Hunter Pence
Derrek Lee
Garrett Atkins
Ian Kinsler
Aaron Harang
Brad Hawpe
Felix Hernandez
Nick Swisher
Chris Young (P)
Shane Victorino
Jeff Francoeur
Andruw Jones
Brett Myers
James Shields
Howie Kendrick
Rich Hill
John Maine
Tim Lincecum
Josh Hamilton
Matt Cain
James Loney
Yovani Gallardo
Matt Capps
Jered Weaver
Rafael Soriano
Ian Snell
Kelly Johnson
Ryan Garko
Dustin McGowan
Adam Wainwright
Derek Lowe
Aaron Hill
Yunel Escobar
Lastings Milledge
Khalil Greene
Hank Blalock
Adam LaRoche
Jonathan Broxton
Kevin Kouzmanoff
Zach Greinke
Ty Wigginton
Nate McLouth
Tony Pena
Mark Ellis
Heath Bell
Adam Jones
Matt Diaz

Guys I dislike or avoided
Derek Jeter
Eric Byrnes
Joe Mauer
Dan Haren
Takashi Saito
Jorge Posada
Jose Valverde
Roy Halladay
Edgar Renteria
Juan Pierre
Jermaine Dye
Dan Uggla
Trevor Hoffman
Brad Penny
Carlos Delgado
Mike Lowell
Aaron Rowand
Dontrelle Willis
Brandon Lyon
Barry Zito
Scott Rolen

Your thoughts?

BY ADAM RONIS

I am amazed at how Hanley Ramirez gets drafted in the top four without much hesitation. If I had a top four pick, I wouldn't draft him. I'm not saying he will be a bust, but I think people are overlooking the loss of Miguel Cabrera. That is a lot less runs he will score and there will be pressure on him to be the run producer. He is also coming off shoulder surgery.

Then Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez said he would prefer Ramirez run less this season to keep him healthy. I think a big reason people draft him so highly is because of his steals with 51 two consecutive seasons. If he doesn't run as often, that certainly drops his value.

BY ADAM RONIS

If you still haven't drafted, stay away from Kelvim Escobar. The Angels righthander has a tear in his right shoulder and it could require season-ending surgery. Escobar even mentioned retirement as a possibility. If you already have him, hang on until it's official.

BY ADAM RONIS

I feel like a mouse that is falling for the trap. Every year I hope Rich Harden stays healthy and puts up great numbers and it never happens because of health. Harden has some of the best stuff in baseball, but he never stays healthy. What's worse, it's usually a shoulder or an elbow injury.

Harden usually went in the first 10 rounds the past few seasons. This year he has fallen much farther and is a high risk, high reward pick. I only have him in one league, so I wouldn't break another TV when I find out he is going on the DL.

Harden flashed his ability this morning against the Red Sox in a 5-1 win. He went six innings, allowed three hits, three walks and struck out nine in his first start since July 7. He threw 95 pitchers and hit the mid 90s with his fastball. His talent isn't a question. It's his health. If he's sitting there late in the draft, it's worth a shot at that point. In an auction league, don't invest heavily. He can be a player that catapults your team to the top or a player that will force you to seek someone else when he hits the DL.

BY ADAM RONIS

The long-term deal the Dodgers gave Juan Pierre seems like a bad move right now. What were they thinking? They had a minor league system stacked with talent and signed this guy to a 5-year, $44 million contract? He steals bases --he gets caught often too -- but what else does he do? He has no power, a poor on-base percentage, hasn't hit .300 the last three years, isn't a good defensive player and has no arm. Sure, he'll get 200 hits, but he wasn't a good fit for the Dodgers, especially since the Dodgers have Rafael Furcal to hit leadoff.

Matt Kemp is slated to start in rightfield, Andruw Jones in center and Pierre in left for now. The problem is Andre Ethier is tearing it up this spring. Only Ivan Rodriguez has more home runs. Ethier is going very late in drafts because all indications point to Pierre playing everyday, even though he has been awful in the spring. Making matters worse, if Ethier gets playing time it come at the expense of Kemp, which makes no sense.

Joe Torre is the one stuck making the tough decision, but blame the Dodgers front office for setting it up. NL-only owners need to stash Ethier away. Mixed leaguers need to hold off until his role is determined or keep him on the bench.

BY ADAM RONIS

Joe Crede will be the opening day third baseman for the White Sox resulting in Josh Fields being sent down to Triple-A to start the season. The White Sox hoped to trade Crede, but found no takers. Crede will be a free agent following the season. Crede was hitting .216 in June last season before undergoing season-ending back surgey. Crede hasn't hit well this spring and isn't a good option until he proves he is healthy. He had a breakout season in 2006 hitting .283 with 30 home runs and 94 RBIs and struck out just 58 times in 544 at-bats.

Fields hit 23 home runs as a rookie last season and has potential. AL-only owners should keep him on their radar.

The White Sox also announced that Jose Uribe will start at second base. Alexei Ramirez will be the backup and play in the outfield.

BY ADAM RONIS

The Brewers released pitcher Claudio Vargas despite a good spring meaning Carlos Villanueva and Manny Parra will open the season in the starting rotation. Both are good selections late in mixed leagues and excellent options in NL-only leagues. Keep in mind, however, one will likely be sent to the minors or bullpen when Yovani Gallardo comes off the DL in mid-April.

The Brewers will start with a rotation of Ben Sheets, Jeff Suppan, David Bush, Parra and Villanueva. With the Mets being unhappy with the No. 5 starter slot now, could Vargas be headed to the Mets?

BY ADAM RONIS

Manny Ramirez will make the owners that took a risk on him very happy this year. I'm not going to get too crazy because it is just one game. You know it's way too early when Jack Hannahan is tied for the major-league lead in home runs.

Ramirez had a decline in numbers last season because of injuries. He had a much better second half after a .284 average, 11 HRs and 45 RBIs in 303 at-bats. He went .317, 9 HRs and 43 RBIs in the second half in just 180 at-bats. Man-Ram was also scorching in the postseason with a .348 average, 4 HRs and 16 RBIs in 46 at-bats.

Man-Ram is one of the best hitters of this generation. He is playing for a new contract or for the Red Sox to pick up his option. He might not hit 40 HRs again, but he is being selected in rounds 3-5 and he could prove to be a huge steal. He went 2-for-5 with four RBIs this morning against the A's. This is also bad news for Mike Lowell, who capitalized on Man-Ram's poor season with 120 RBIs.

BY ADAM RONIS

Wouldn't it be great if every girl you asked out said yes? Wouldn't it be great if our draft plan came to fruition the way we drew it up? Well, it doesn't happen this way. Lets take my draft last night as an example.

Catchers and closers didn't come off the board early. That meant starting pitchers went more frequently. I had the No. 10 pick overall and when it came to round 6, I had to decide to go with a starting pitcher or best bat available. Chris Young, the hitter, was there and his 30-30 potential was too much to pass up. I was close to taking Aaron Harang or Felix Hernandez and hoped one of them would be there when I picked 19 picks later. They weren't.

Now, my pitching is a little weak. I could have caved in and started to select a bunch of starting pitchers. I went for the best value. Beltre at No. 106. Good value. Andruw Jones at No. 130. Good value. I have three closers with jobs now and two that could potentially close. I could turn one of those into a trade for a starter. I think my offense is well-balanced, except possibly average, so I could always pick up a free agent and trade an offensive player for a starter.

The point is don't panic during a draft. Take the best value pick. The draft is only the beginning. The league is won on waiver-wire pickups and trades. A bad draft doesn't spell defeat, it just means you need to work hard, so make sure you accumulate sick days. You will need them, unless you take my advice.

BY ADAM RONIS

Here are the results from an experts league draft I participated in on Monday night. It's a 12-team, mixed 5x5 roto league with 23 starters and five reserves. I had the No. 10 pick.

Round 1
1. Álex Rodríguez Roto Advice
2. Hanley Ramírez Jordan - Rot...
3. José Reyes MLB Front Of...
4. David Wright Regular Guy-...
5. Matt Holliday Greener Side
6. Jimmy Rollins Pseudo Sports
7. Miguel Cabrera Roto Professor
8. Chase Utley Baseball Hap...
9. Ryan Howard Mock Draft C...
10. Prince Fielder Can't Stop t...
11. Johan Santana Razzball.com
12. Ryan Braun Warning Trac...

Round 2
1. Carl Crawford Warning Trac...
2. David Ortiz Razzball.com
3. Grady Sizemore Can't Stop t...
4. Vladimir Guerrero Mock Draft C...
5. Jake Peavy Baseball Hap...
6. Albert Pujols Roto Professor
7. B.J. Upton Pseudo Sports
8. Brandon Phillips Greener Side
9. Mark Teixeira Regular Guy-...
10. Alfonso Soriano MLB Front Of...
11. Carlos Beltrán Jordan - Rot...
12. Russell Martin Roto Advice

Round 3
1. Carlos Lee Roto Advice
2. Aramis Ramírez Jordan - Rot...
3. Lance Berkman MLB Front Of...
4. Brandon Webb Regular Guy-...
5. Álex Ríos Greener Side
6. Magglio Ordóñez Pseudo Sports
7. Ichiro Suzuki Roto Professor
8. Troy Tulowitzki Baseball Hap...
9. Víctor Martínez Mock Draft C...
10. Derrek Lee Can't Stop t...
11. Nick Markakis Razzball.com
12. Josh Beckett Warning Trac...

Round 4
1. C.C. Sabathia Warning Trac...
2. Garrett Atkins Razzball.com
3. Corey Hart Can't Stop t...
4. Brian Roberts Mock Draft C...
5. Ian Kinsler Baseball Hap...
6. Erik Bedard Roto Professor
7. Travis Hafner Pseudo Sports
8. Adam Dunn Greener Side
9. Chone Figgins Regular Guy-...
10. Eric Byrnes MLB Front Of...
11. Cole Hamels Jordan - Rot...
12. Hunter Pence Roto Advice

Round 5
1. Carlos Guillén Roto Advice
2. Manny Ramírez Jordan - Rot...
3. Justin Morneau MLB Front Of...
4. Bobby Abreu Regular Guy-...
5. Ryan Zimmerman Greener Side
6. Robinson Canó Pseudo Sports
7. Curtis Granderson Roto Professor
8. Chipper Jones Baseball Hap...
9. Derek Jeter Mock Draft C...
10. Rafael Furcal Can't Stop t...
11. Torii Hunter Razzball.com
12. Carlos Peña Warning Trac...

Round 6
1. Scott Kazmir Warning Trac...
2. Dan Haren Razzball.com
3. Chris Young Can't Stop t...
4. Justin Verlander Mock Draft C...
5. Josh Hamilton Baseball Hap...
6. Miguel Tejada Roto Professor
7. Chris Young Pseudo Sports
8. Shane Victorino Greener Side
9. Félix Hernández Regular Guy-...
10. Adrián González MLB Front Of...
11. Carlos Zambrano Jordan - Rot...
12. Jonathan Papelbon Roto Advice

Round 7
1. Matt Kemp Roto Advice
2. Joe Mauer Jordan - Rot...
3. Aaron Harang MLB Front Of...
4. Brad Hawpe Regular Guy-...
5. Tim Lincecum Greener Side
6. Nick Swisher Pseudo Sports
7. Roy Oswalt Roto Professor
8. Todd Helton Baseball Hap...
9. J.J. Putz Mock Draft C...
10. Brett Myers Can't Stop t...
11. Joe Nathan Razzball.com
12. Francisco Rodríguez Warning Trac...

Round 8
1. John Smoltz Warning Trac...
2. Jeff Francoeur Razzball.com
3. Rickie Weeks Can't Stop t...
4. Daisuke Matsuzaka Mock Draft C...
5. Gary Sheffield Baseball Hap...
6. Paul Konerko Roto Professor
7. Jim Thome Pseudo Sports
8. James Loney Greener Side
9. Jason Bay Regular Guy-...
10. Rich Hill MLB Front Of...
11. Delmon Young Jordan - Rot...
12. Ben Sheets Roto Advice

Round 9
1. James Shields Roto Advice
2. Billy Wagner Jordan - Rot...
3. Alex Gordon MLB Front Of...
4. Brian McCann Regular Guy-...
5. Francisco Liriano Greener Side
6. Yovani Gallardo Pseudo Sports
7. Javier Vázquez Roto Professor
8. John Lackey Baseball Hap...
9. Hideki Matsui Mock Draft C...
10. Adrián Béltre Can't Stop t...
11. Michael Young Razzball.com
12. Takashi Saito Warning Trac...

Round 10
1. Francisco Cordero Warning Trac...
2. Mariano Rivera Razzball.com
3. John Maine Can't Stop t...
4. Johnny Damon Mock Draft C...
5. Pat Burrell Baseball Hap...
6. Chad Billingsley Roto Professor
7. José Valverde Pseudo Sports
8. Édgar Rentería Greener Side
9. Bobby Jenks Regular Guy-...
10. Fausto Carmona MLB Front Of...
11. Vernon Wells Jordan - Rot...
12. Dan Uggla Roto Advice

Round 11
1. Jacoby Ellsbury Roto Advice
2. Conor Jackson Jordan - Rot...
3. Roy Halladay MLB Front Of...
4. Jermaine Dye Regular Guy-...
5. Matt Cain Greener Side
6. Huston Street Pseudo Sports
7. Howie Kendrick Roto Professor
8. Brad Penny Baseball Hap...
9. Ryan Garko Mock Draft C...
10. Andruw Jones Can't Stop t...
11. Jorge Posada Razzball.com
12. Kelly Johnson Warning Trac...

Round 12
1. Jeremy Hermida Warning Trac...
2. Matt Capps Razzball.com
3. Ian Snell Can't Stop t...
4. Manny Corpas Mock Draft C...
5. Ted Lilly Baseball Hap...
6. Jered Weaver Roto Professor
7. Willy Taveras Pseudo Sports
8. Michael Bourn Greener Side
9. Orlando Cabrera Regular Guy-...
10. Dustin McGowan MLB Front Of...
11. Rafael Soriano Jordan - Rot...
12. J.J. Hardy Roto Advice

Round 13
1. A.J. Burnett Roto Advice
2. Billy Butler Jordan - Rot...
3. Edwin Encarnación MLB Front Of...
4. Adam Wainwright Regular Guy-...
5. Chad Cordero Greener Side
6. Kevin Kouzmanoff Pseudo Sports
7. Eric Gagne Roto Professor
8. Carlos Gómez Baseball Hap...
9. Chien-Ming Wang Mock Draft C...
10. Joakim Soria Can't Stop t...
11. Pedro Martínez Razzball.com
12. Trevor Hoffman Warning Trac...

Round 14
1. Mike Lowell Warning Trac...
2. Jhonny Peralta Razzball.com
3. Brad Lidge Can't Stop t...
4. Plácido Polanco Mock Draft C...
5. Andre Ethier Baseball Hap...
6. Jason Isringhausen Roto Professor
7. Evan Longoria Pseudo Sports
8. Oliver Pérez Greener Side
9. Kosuke Fukudome Regular Guy-...
10. Josh Willingham MLB Front Of...
11. Tim Hudson Jordan - Rot...
12. Justin Upton Roto Advice

Round 15
1. Khalil Greene Roto Advice
2. Carlos Mármol Jordan - Rot...
3. Geovany Soto MLB Front Of...
4. Jeff Francis Regular Guy-...
5. Joe Borowski Greener Side
6. Lastings Milledge Pseudo Sports
7. Julio Lugo Roto Professor
8. Derek Lowe Baseball Hap...
9. Raúl Ibañez Mock Draft C...
10. Hank Blalock Can't Stop t...
11. Adam LaRoche Razzball.com
12. Yunel Escobar Warning Trac...

Round 16
1. Zack Greinke Warning Trac...
2. Ty Wigginton Razzball.com
3. Aaron Hill Can't Stop t...
4. Kevin Youkilis Mock Draft C...
5. Kerry Wood Baseball Hap...
6. Ken Griffey Jr. Roto Professor
7. George Sherrill Pseudo Sports
8. Kevin Gregg Greener Side
9. Carlos Delgado Regular Guy-...
10. Joey Votto MLB Front Of...
11. Phil Hughes Jordan - Rot...
12. Brian Wilson Roto Advice

Round 17
1. Rick Ankiel Roto Advice
2. Dustin Pedroia Jordan - Rot...
3. Clay Buchholz MLB Front Of...
4. Rich Harden Regular Guy-...
5. Daric Barton Greener Side
6. Randy Johnson Pseudo Sports
7. Brandon Lyon Roto Professor
8. Todd Jones Baseball Hap...
9. Frank Thomas Mock Draft C...
10. Jeremy Bonderman Can't Stop t...
11. Nate McLouth Razzball.com
12. Troy Glaus Warning Trac...

Round 18
1. Casey Kotchman Warning Trac...
2. Juan Pierre Razzball.com
3. Troy Percival Can't Stop t...
4. Jonathan Broxton Mock Draft C...
5. Mark Reynolds Baseball Hap...
6. José Guillén Roto Professor
7. Jack Cust Pseudo Sports
8. Kenji Johjima Greener Side
9. Jeremy Accardo Regular Guy-...
10. B.J. Ryan MLB Front Of...
11. Michael Cuddyer Jordan - Rot...
12. Matt Garza Roto Advice

Round 19
1. Joba Chamberlain Roto Advice
2. Hiroki Kuroda Jordan - Rot...
3. C.J. Wilson MLB Front Of...
4. Luke Scott Regular Guy-...
5. Joe Blanton Greener Side
6. Ryan Theriot Pseudo Sports
7. Adam Jones Roto Professor
8. Iván Rodríguez Baseball Hap...
9. Gil Meche Mock Draft C...
10. Tony Peña Can't Stop t...
11. Rafael Betancourt Razzball.com
12. Austin Kearns Warning Trac...

Round 20
1. J.R. Towles Warning Trac...
2. Andy Pettitte Razzball.com
3. Heath Bell Can't Stop t...
4. Corey Patterson Mock Draft C...
5. Aubrey Huff Baseball Hap...
6. Tom Gorzelanny Roto Professor
7. Edison Vólquez Pseudo Sports
8. Chris Duncan Greener Side
9. Jason Bartlett Regular Guy-...
10. Aaron Rowand MLB Front Of...
11. Garret Anderson Jordan - Rot...
12. Nick Johnson Roto Advice

Round 21
1. Jason Kubel Roto Advice
2. Pat Neshek Jordan - Rot...
3. Stephen Drew MLB Front Of...
4. Aaron Heilman Regular Guy-...
5. Cameron Maybin Greener Side
6. Mark Teahen Pseudo Sports
7. Casey Blake Roto Professor
8. Brian Bannister Baseball Hap...
9. Jon Lester Mock Draft C...
10. Shaun Marcum Can't Stop t...
11. Melky Cabrera Razzball.com
12. Jeff Kent Warning Trac...

Round 22
1. Mike Cameron Warning Trac...
2. Kelvim Escobar Razzball.com
3. Matt Diaz Can't Stop t...
4. Carlos Villanueva Mock Draft C...
5. Bill Hall Baseball Hap...
6. Ian Kennedy Roto Professor
7. Randy Wolf Pseudo Sports
8. Boof Bonser Greener Side
9. Jerry Owens Regular Guy-...
10. Josh Fields MLB Front Of...
11. Franklin Gutiérrez Jordan - Rot...
12. Justin Duchscherer Roto Advice

Round 23
1. Jeremy Guthrie Roto Advice
2. Mark Ellis Jordan - Rot...
3. Colby Rasmus MLB Front Of...
4. Manny Delcarmen Regular Guy-...
5. Jair Jurrjens Greener Side
6. Greg Maddux Pseudo Sports
7. Pedro Feliz Roto Professor
8. Reggie Willits Baseball Hap...
9. Kazuo Matsui Mock Draft C...
10. Andy Sonnanstine Can't Stop t...
11. Eugenio Velez Razzball.com
12. Gary Matthews Jr. Warning Trac...

Round 24
1. Mark Buehrle Warning Trac...
2. Mike Jacobs Razzball.com
3. Asdrubal Cabrera Can't Stop t...
4. Scott Olsen Mock Draft C...
5. Tadahito Iguchi Baseball Hap...
6. Felipe López Roto Professor
7. Ervin Santana Pseudo Sports
8. Travis Buck Greener Side
9. Ubaldo Jiménez Regular Guy-...
10. Orlando Hudson MLB Front Of...
11. Orlando Hernández Jordan - Rot...
12. Akinori Iwamura Roto Advice

Round 25
1. Bronson Arroyo Roto Advice
2. Jason Giambi Jordan - Rot...
3. Jarrod Saltalamacchia MLB Front Of...
4. Ryan Church Regular Guy-...
5. Gio Gonzalez Greener Side
6. Mark Prior Pseudo Sports
7. Scott Baker Roto Professor
8. Tom Glavine Baseball Hap...
9. Milton Bradley Mock Draft C...
10. Kevin Slowey Can't Stop t...
11. Jon Rauch Razzball.com
12. Freddy Sánchez Warning Trac...

Round 26
1. Chris Carpenter Warning Trac...
2. Hideki Okajima Razzball.com
3. Dontrelle Willis Can't Stop t...
4. Dave Bush Mock Draft C...
5. Lyle Overbay Baseball Hap...
6. J.D. Drew Roto Professor
7. Manny Parra Pseudo Sports
8. Jayson Nix Greener Side
9. Jake Westbrook Regular Guy-...
10. Jay Bruce MLB Front Of...
11. Joe Crede Jordan - Rot...
12. Tom Gordon Roto Advice

Round 27
1. Richie Sexson Roto Advice
2. Andrew Miller Jordan - Rot...
3. Shawn Hill MLB Front Of...
4. Yuniesky Betancourt Regular Guy-...
5. Dana Eveland Greener Side
6. Carlos Ruiz Pseudo Sports
7. Chuck James Roto Professor
8. A.J. Pierzynski Baseball Hap...
9. Elijah Dukes Mock Draft C...
10. Micah Owings Can't Stop t...
11. Kazuo Fukumori Razzball.com
12. Scott Rolen Warning Trac...

Round 28
1. Jonathan Sánchez Warning Trac...
2. Jonny Gomes Razzball.com
3. Bengie Molina Can't Stop t...
4. Rocco Baldelli Mock Draft C...
5. Eric Chávez Baseball Hap...
6. Ramón Hernández Roto Professor
7. Chris Denorfia Pseudo Sports
8. Félix Pié Greener Side
9. Brian Fuentes Regular Guy-...
10. Bob Howry MLB Front Of...
11. Wily Mo Peña Jordan - Rot...
12. Masa Kobayashi Roto Advice

My team
Can't Stop the Reign
1. (10) Prince Fielder
2. (15) Grady Sizemore
3. (34) Derrek Lee
4. (39) Corey Hart
5. (58) Rafael Furcal
6. (63) Chris Young
7. (82) Brett Myers
8. (87) Rickie Weeks
9. (106) Adrián Béltre
10. (111) John Maine
11. (130) Andruw Jones
12. (135) Ian Snell
13. (154) Joakim Soria
14. (159) Brad Lidge
15. (178) Hank Blalock
16. (183) Aaron Hill
17. (202) Jeremy Bonderman
18. (207) Troy Percival
19. (226) Tony Peña
20. (231) Heath Bell
21. (250) Shaun Marcum
22. (255) Matt Diaz
23. (274) Andy Sonnanstine
24. (279) Asdrubal Cabrera
25. (298) Kevin Slowey
26. (303) Dontrelle Willis
27. (322) Micah Owings
28. (327) Bengie Molina

Comments?

BY ADAM RONIS

The Rays have elected to send Evan Longoria down to Triple-A. I'm so upset by this move you would have thought it was Eva Longoria. I have Longoria as a backup on one team, so I'm not relying on him in fantasy, but the guy deserved to play third base. He proved in the spring he won the job, but the Rays know by sending him to the minors, they control his rights for an extra year. Way to build a winning team Tampa Bay. Willy Aybar will start at third base. Longoria should be up at some point. If you're in a keeper league or have a bench spot for him, draft him late.

The Phillies placed closer Brad Lidge on the 15-day DL, but he won't miss much time. He is eligible to return April 5. Tom Gordon will fill in while Lidge is out. It's safe to still draft Lidge.

BY ADAM RONIS

As expected, the Cubs named Kerry Wood the closer today after pitching consecutive days over the weekend. If he stays healthy, maybe he can do well. Obviously, that's a huge issue for Wood, who has pitched 66, 19 and 24 innings the past three seasons. I'm still not sold. Keep your eye on Carlos Marmol. The Cubs also announced that Ryan Dempster and Jason Marquis will be in the starting rotation, while Jon Lieber will be in the bullpen.

Curtis Granderson will begin the season on the DL after breaking a finger over the weekend. For those that own him, don't panic!!! Easy for me to say because I don't own him, but he might only be out two weeks. If you have yet to draft, I wouldn't shy away from him if you really like him. If he comes back in mid-April, he won't miss too many games.

You might not hear from him early in the season since he will begin the season in Triple-A, but don't forget about the Padres Chase Headley, especially in NL-only leagues. He hit .349 in 43 spring at-bats, but is learning how to play the outfield since the team has Kevin Kouzmanoff at third, Headley's natural position.

The Indians named Cliff Lee the fifth starter. Aaron Laffey and Jeremy Sowers will begin the year in Triple-A. Yeah, I'm not excited about that news either.

BY ADAM RONIS

Here is my team from a 5x5 mixed league (on-base instead of average) with 11 teams I drafted last week. I had the No. 1 pick.

1. Alex Rodriguez
22. B.J. Upton
23. Carlos Beltran
44. Derrek Lee
45. Nick Markakis
66. Hunter Pence
67. Aaron Harang
88. Brad Hawpe
89. Jeff Francoeur
110. Chris Young (P)
111. Yovani Gallardo
132. Rafael Furcal
133. James Shields
154. Manny Corpas
155. Ian Snell
176. Joakim Soria
177. Matt Capps
198. Hank Blalock
199. Ty Wigginton
220. Johnny Peralta
221. Jonathan Broxton
242. Geovany Soto
243. Heath Bell
264. Tony Pena
265. Micah Owings
286. Nate McLouth
287. Brian Fuentes
308. Andy Sonnanstine
309. Carlos Villanueva
330. Joey Votto

Thoughts? Comments?

BY ADAM RONIS

Predicting wins from pitchers is very difficult. Sure, there are some pitchers that we can usually pencil in for 17-plus wins, but a lot of factors come into play such as run support, the backend of the bullpen and luck. That's why you shouldn't draft a pitcher based on win projections. The best barometer is to look for a guy who throws innings, gets strikeouts and has a good BB/K ratio. I illustrated this with Ian Snell a few entries back.

Lets look at another comparison:

Pitcher A: 216 1/3 IP, 101 BB, 177 K, 3.95 ERA, 1.33 WHIP

Pitcher B: 195 IP, 63 BB, 183 K, 3.92 ERA, 1.19 WHIP

The statistics are pretty similar besides the walks, which led to a higher WHIP for Pitcher A. The difference in the win total was seven. It doesn't make sense based on the stats, but projecting wins isn't logical. Pitcher A is Carlos Zambrano, who won 18 games and Pitcher B is his teammate Rich Hill, who won 11 games.

Zambrano has been going around round 5 or 6 of mixed leagues, while Hill goes around 9 or 10.
Don't bypass a pitcher because he's on a bad team either and might not get wins, like a Matt Cain. The Giants righthander had a better season in 2007 than 2006 but had seven wins compared to 13 in 2006. The Giants lineup might resemble one you would see in a nursing home pickup game -- if they exist -- but his other numbers are solid and he has upside at only 23. Don't let wins determine whether you draft one pitcher over another.

BY ADAM RONIS

Here is a list of team-by-team closers and the top setup men.

AL EAST
Orioles: George Sherrill. Setup: Jamie Walker, Jim Hoey
Red Sox: Jonathan Papelbon. Setup: Hideki Okajima, Manny Delcarmen
Yankees: Mariano Rivera. Setup: Joba Chamberlain
Rays: Troy Percival. Setup: Al Reyes, Dan Wheeler
Blue Jays: B.J. Ryan. Setup: Jeremy Accardo, Jason Frasor

AL CENTRAL
White Sox: Bobby Jenks. Setup: Octavio Dotel, Scott Linebrink
Indians: Joe Borowski. Setup: Rafael Betancourt, Rafael Perez
Tigers: Todd Jones. Setup: Fernando Rodney, Denny Bautista
Royals: Joakim Soria. Setup: Yasuhiko Yabuta
Twins: Joe Nathan. Setup: Pat Neshek, Matt Guerrier

AL WEST
Angels: Francisco Rodriguez. Setup: Scot Shields, Justin Speier
A's: Huston Street. Setup: Alan Embree
Mariners: J.J. Putz. Setup: Brandon Morrow
Rangers: C.J. Wilson. Setup: Joaquin Benoit

NL EAST
Braves: Rafael Soriano. Setup: Peter Moylan
Marlins: Kevin Gregg. Setup: Matt Lindstrom
Mets: Billy Wagner. Setup: Aaron Heilmann
Phillies: Brad Lidge. Setup: Tom Gordon
Nationals: Chad Cordero. Setup: Jon Rauch

NL CENTRAL
Cubs: Kerry Wood. Setup: Carlos Marmol, Bob Howry
Reds: Francisco Cordero. Setup: David Weathers
Astros: Jose Valverde. Setup: Doug Brocail
Brewers: Eric Gagne. Setup: David Riske
Pirates: Matt Capps. Setup: Damaso Marte
Cardinals: Jason Isringhausen. Setup: Ryan Franklin

NL WEST
Diamondbacks: Brandon Lyon. Setup: Tony Pena, Chad Qualls
Rockies: Manny Corpas. Setup: Brian Fuentes
Dodgers: Takashi Saito. Setup: Jonathan Broxton
Padres: Trevor Hoffman. Setup: Heath Bell
Giants: Brian Wilson. Setup: Tyler Walker

BY ADAM RONIS

The Blue Jays have decided to hold B.J. Ryan out of spring games indefinitely after he complained of soreness in his arm on Monday. Jeremy Accardo will start the season as closer. Don't reach too high or pay too much for Ryan. He might recover and be successful the last few months, but don't make a heavy investment.

BY ADAM RONIS

Braves starter John Smoltz was scratched from his start today because of shoulder tightness in his throwing arm. He hopes to make his next start Wednesday, but the DL is a possibility. Smoltz turns 41 in May and shouldn't be relied on as a No. 1. He pitches through pain and hasn't shown signs of slipping, but he will miss time this season due to injury.

BY ADAM RONIS

Here is the draft from the NFBC league I participated in. It's a 15-team, 30-round mixed league draft. I picked fifth. We start 2 C, IB, 2B, SS, 3B, CI, MI, 5 OF, U, 9 P and have 7 reserves.

ROUND PICK PLAYER POS TEAM
1 1 Alex Rodriguez 3B GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
1 2 Hanley Ramirez SS Mallorys Killers
1 3 Jimmy Rollins SS Team Ace
1 4 Jose Reyes SS jupiter rovers
1 5 David Wright 3B Jedi Mind Tricks
1 6 Matt Holliday LF Lost Sailors
1 7 Chase Utley 2B Motts
1 8 Miguel Cabrera 3B Team Srebro (Main)
1 9 Ryan Braun 3B Team Wojtowicz
1 10 Ryan Howard 1B Mr. October
1 11 Carl Crawford LF Client 1 thru 8
1 12 Grady Sizemore CF Kruklyn Dodgers
1 13 Johan Santana SP Trash Bums
1 14 David Ortiz DH croatian gyros
1 15 Prince Fielder 1B Ratbeer II
2 1 Ichiro Suzuki CF Ratbeer II
2 2 Brandon Phillips 2B croatian gyros
2 3 B.J. Upton CF Trash Bums
2 4 Mark Teixeira 1B Kruklyn Dodgers
2 5 Albert Pujols 1B Client 1 thru 8
2 6 Alfonso Soriano LF Mr. October
2 7 Curtis Granderson CF Team Wojtowicz
2 8 Carlos Lee LF Team Srebro (Main)
2 9 Jake Peavy SP Motts
2 10 Carlos Beltran CF Lost Sailors
2 11 Vladimir Guerrero RF Jedi Mind Tricks
2 12 Brian Roberts 2B jupiter rovers
2 13 Magglio Ordonez RF Team Ace
2 14 Lance Berkman 1B Mallorys Killers
2 15 Troy Tulowitzki SS GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
3 1 Russell Martin C GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
3 2 Victor Martinez C Mallorys Killers
3 3 Aramis Ramirez 3B Team Ace
3 4 Erik Bedard SP jupiter rovers
3 5 Derrek Lee 1B Jedi Mind Tricks
3 6 Alex Rios RF Lost Sailors
3 7 Justin Morneau 1B Motts
3 8 Rafael Furcal SS Team Srebro (Main)
3 9 Corey Hart RF Team Wojtowicz
3 10 Brandon Webb SP Mr. October
3 11 Nick Markakis RF Client 1 thru 8
3 12 Derek Jeter SS Kruklyn Dodgers
3 13 Manny Ramirez LF Trash Bums
3 14 Garrett Atkins 3B croatian gyros
3 15 Adam Dunn LF Ratbeer II
4 1 Robinson Cano 2B Ratbeer II
4 2 Chone Figgins 3B croatian gyros
4 3 Bobby Abreu RF Trash Bums
4 4 Carlos Guillen SS Kruklyn Dodgers
4 5 Travis Hafner DH Client 1 thru 8
4 6 Ian Kinsler 2B Mr. October
4 7 Justin Verlander SP Team Wojtowicz
4 8 Chris Young CF Team Srebro (Main)
4 9 Michael Young SS Motts
4 10 Carlos Pena 1B Lost Sailors
4 11 Hunter Pence CF Jedi Mind Tricks
4 12 Chipper Jones 3B jupiter rovers
4 13 Josh Beckett SP Team Ace
4 14 Eric Byrnes LF Mallorys Killers
4 15 Rickie Weeks 2B GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
5 1 Miguel Tejada SS GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
5 2 C.C. Sabathia SP Mallorys Killers
5 3 Shane Victorino RF Team Ace
5 4 Dan Haren SP jupiter rovers
5 5 Nick Swisher CF Jedi Mind Tricks
5 6 Jonathan Papelbon CL Lost Sailors
5 7 J.J. Putz CL Motts
5 8 Cole Hamels SP Team Srebro (Main)
5 9 Torii Hunter CF Team Wojtowicz
5 10 Adrian Gonzalez 1B Mr. October
5 11 Paul Konerko 1B Client 1 thru 8
5 12 Brian McCann C Kruklyn Dodgers
5 13 Vernon Wells CF Trash Bums
5 14 Francisco Rodriguez CL croatian gyros
5 15 Felix Hernandez SP Ratbeer II
6 1 John Smoltz SP Ratbeer II
6 2 Billy Wagner CL croatian gyros
6 3 Matt Kemp RF Trash Bums
6 4 Carlos Zambrano SP Kruklyn Dodgers
6 5 Juan Pierre CF Client 1 thru 8
6 6 John Lackey SP Mr. October
6 7 James Shields SP Team Wojtowicz
6 8 Joe Mauer C Team Srebro (Main)
6 9 Jeff Francoeur RF Motts
6 10 Jorge Posada C Lost Sailors
6 11 Aaron Harang SP Jedi Mind Tricks
6 12 Ryan Zimmerman 3B jupiter rovers
6 13 Howie Kendrick 2B Team Ace
6 14 Daisuke Matsuzaka SP Mallorys Killers
6 15 Chris Young SP GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
7 1 Rich Hill SP GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
7 2 Brad Hawpe RF Mallorys Killers
7 3 Roy Oswalt SP Team Ace
7 4 Delmon Young RF jupiter rovers
7 5 James Loney 1B Jedi Mind Tricks
7 6 Scott Kazmir SP Lost Sailors
7 7 Roy Halladay SP Motts
7 8 Josh Hamilton CF Team Srebro (Main)
7 9 Javier Vazquez SP Team Wojtowicz
7 10 Willy Taveras CF Mr. October
7 11 Joe Nathan CL Client 1 thru 8
7 12 Bobby Jenks CL Kruklyn Dodgers
7 13 John Maine SP Trash Bums
7 14 Andruw Jones CF croatian gyros
7 15 Alex Gordon 3B Ratbeer II
8 1 Chad Billingsley MR Ratbeer II
8 2 Trevor Hoffman CL croatian gyros
8 3 Yovani Gallardo SP Trash Bums
8 4 Dan Uggla 2B Kruklyn Dodgers
8 5 Matt Cain SP Client 1 thru 8
8 6 Brett Myers CL Mr. October
8 7 Manny Corpas CL Team Wojtowicz
8 8 Francisco Liriano MR Team Srebro (Main)
8 9 Michael Bourn LF Motts
8 10 Adrian Beltre 3B Lost Sailors
8 11 Fausto Carmona SP Jedi Mind Tricks
8 12 Jermaine Dye RF jupiter rovers
8 13 Takashi Saito CL Team Ace
8 14 Mariano Rivera CL Mallorys Killers
8 15 Jason Bay LF GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
9 1 Jose Valverde CL GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
9 2 Francisco Cordero CL Mallorys Killers
9 3 Gary Sheffield DH Team Ace
9 4 Hideki Matsui LF jupiter rovers
9 5 Matt Capps CL Jedi Mind Tricks
9 6 Edgar Renteria SS Lost Sailors
9 7 Mike Lowell 3B Motts
9 8 Huston Street CL Team Srebro (Main)
9 9 Jacoby Ellsbury LF Team Wojtowicz
9 10 Tim Lincecum SP Mr. October
9 11 Orlando Cabrera SS Client 1 thru 8
9 12 Johnny Damon CF Kruklyn Dodgers
9 13 Rafael Soriano CL Trash Bums
9 14 Kenji Johjima C croatian gyros
9 15 Joakim Soria CL Ratbeer II
10 1 Phil Hughes SP Ratbeer II
10 2 Kevin Youkilis 1B croatian gyros
10 3 Ryan Garko 1B Trash Bums
10 4 Ben Sheets SP Kruklyn Dodgers
10 5 A.J. Burnett SP Client 1 thru 8
10 6 Eric Gagne CL Mr. October
10 7 Aaron Hill 2B Team Wojtowicz
10 8 Todd Helton 1B Team Srebro (Main)
10 9 Brad Penny SP Motts
10 10 Ted Lilly SP Lost Sailors
10 11 Jim Thome DH Jedi Mind Tricks
10 12 Pedro Martinez SP jupiter rovers
10 13 Brad Lidge CL Team Ace
10 14 J.J. Hardy SS Mallorys Killers
10 15 Edwin Encarnacion 3B GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
11 1 Aaron Rowand CF GREY GOOSE,POM, and BASEBALL --PRICELESS
11 2 Ryan Theriot SS Mallorys Killers
11 3 Jered Weaver SP Team Ace
11 4 Jeremy Hermida RF jupiter rovers
11 5 Ian Snell SP Jedi Mind Tricks
11 6 Chad Cordero CL Lost Sailors
11 7 Kosuke Fukudome RF Motts
11 8 Dustin McGowan SP Team Srebro (Main)
11 9 Kelly Johnson 2B Team Wojtowicz
11 10 Kevin Gregg CL Mr. October
11 11 Pat Burrell LF Client 1 thru 8
11 12 Hank Blalock 3B Kruklyn Dodgers
11 13 Julio Lugo SS Trash Bums
11 14 Khalil Greene SS croatian gyros
11 15 Josh Willingham LF Ratbeer II
12 1 Zack Greinke MR Ratbeer II
12 2 Raul Ibanez LF croatian gyros