Lessons Learned From Year One Of Playing Fantasy Baseball
In the least surprising turn of events ever, I have won the first-ever Vendetta fantasy baseball league. I was going to use this year as a learning experience for me but once Milo power ranked me 10th the Eye of the Tiger came out and I had to win. If they couldn’t beat me this year, they’re never going to beat me now. It is what it is.
Trey knows baseball. I just didn’t know if I knew fantasy baseball. I still learned a ton this year and I’m going to share those lessons with you so that you can also have success in fantasy baseball. Let’s go over the list.
Pitching, Pitching, Pitching:
Starting pitching is what wins. If you have 3-4 horses on your staff, it’s really hard to lose. I got this part right but I didn’t anticipate just how important it was. Framber Valdez and Zack Wheeler carried me for large stretches of the season. I later added Luis Castillo and Sandy Alcantara via trade. The starters just create a baseline of points that you need to win. When drafting, you have to get quality pitching or you may as well pack up and go home.
Prioritize Quality Closers:
There are 30 save opportunities around the league. Except some are more valuable than others. Some teams stink and the saves just aren’t there. Some teams use the closer spot by committee so it’s hard to trust certain teams. There are about 10 quality closers in the league that you know will pick up saves. Make sure they’re on your team. Don’t just fill your entire pitching staff with starters. Get your hands on quality closers to create balance in the staff. Trust me, those save points come in clutch.
Consistency Trumps All:
You get in what you put out. You get 12 pitching starts per week. Are you constantly changing your lineup to maximize your points? In reality, it’s smart to leave a few empty roster spots for players to constantly rotate into the lineup. Maybe there is an off day for your third baseman. Why not pick someone up to replace him that day? You have to maximize every day or you’re doing it wrong.
Don’t Reach For Batters That Don’t Hit Homers:
One of the biggest mistakes I made in the draft was reaching for Tim Anderson. Shortstops were flying off the board and I felt like I had to go get one. Anderson tanked but the strategy in general is what failed me. I got Gunnar Henderson off waivers who ended up turning my season around.
There is just no reason to reach for certain batters. Homers are so crucial in fantasy success. Preferably guys that hit for power and add steals along the way. The on-base guys, there is just no reason to reach. Odds are someone on the waiver wire will be better anyway.
Avoid Strikeout Bums:
Too many strikeouts are a problem with certain players. I hate looking at my score and seeing negative points. Any player that strikes out too much has a certain ceiling in fantasy. A perfect example is Giancarlo Stanton. Sure, he has freak power but the K’s make him a bench play at best.
Send A Flurry Of Early Season Trade Offers:
Take advantage of early season panic. One of the best moves I made was trading for Michael Harris. The Braves outfielder struggled in April but later turned his season around. I really wanted Harris during the draft but took advantage of his early season struggles. April is when the most people pay attention. Send your buy low offers early for late season rewards.
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