Wh-wh-what's yo' fanta-ta-sy?

Friends,

In some parts of our great country the weather is still cold and snowy. In other parts, it's above freezing, slushy and wet. But, in the sunny locales of southern Florida and the ninety mile strip of highway that connects Tucson to Phoenix, the last few days have brought the aroma of oil on aged and dry flesh, the sight of delightfully carved long, hard, wooden shafts cracking against red-accented, white-as-a-sheet, virgin balls, the delicious aural pleasure of said balls smacking against freshly-lubed leather.

No, I'm not talking about your favorite S&M fantasy. I'm talking a fantasy of the baseball variety. More specifically: Fantasy Baseball!

Pitchers and catchers have reported for every team except for the Florida Marlins (they've already given up hope, apparently...). Only the Marlins and Will Kruesi's White Sox have yet to have an official workout (maybe they've given up hope, too?). This, compadres, means that spring training is well under way. As spring training goes by, fans of all shapes, colors, sizes, and affiliations are, by birthright, given reason for optimism. It's spring after all! Bunny rabbits hop gleefully through the prairie, flip flops are busted out, we can drink beer outside! For many fans, this optimism quickly dissipates as pitcher X requires Tommy John surgery, infielder Y breaks his foot, and outfielder Z cracks his rib. But, at least during the beginning of spring training, we can all say "Maybe this is our year!"

The shrewdest of fans will also assess their fantasy options with the utmost scrutiny throughout this optimistic time. Some of us will probably draft with loyalty to our favorite team. Nonberg will likely sit in the corner with a beer box on his head and covet the players already drafted. Past years have made it clear that any strategy is viable. Whatever your strategy, fantasy baseball is upon us!

Who's in?


NOTE: Ted volunteered to organize, as in years past, but he does not know this yet.