How to Dominate Your MLB The Show 23 Fantasy Draft (Without Getting Kicked Out of Your League)
Ah, the fantasy draft. A time for dreams (of a stacked team), nightmares (of getting stuck with Bartolo Colon's elbow as your ace), and enough trash talk to fuel a landfill. But fear not, fellow baseball fanatics! This guide will turn you from a bewildered rookie to a ruthless champion, all while keeping your league-mates from calling you a "stat-chasing nerd" (though, you probably are a little bit).
Step 1: Embrace the Value Vacuum
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The Early Rounds: All Hail the Pitching Gods Let's face it, in The Show, pitching is king (or queen, depending on your closer situation). Snag an elite arm (Shohei Ohtani anyone?) in the early rounds. They'll be your workhorses, racking up Ks and keeping your ERA sparkling. Don't be afraid to grab two aces back-to-back – your sanity (and WHIP) will thank you later.
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The Middle Rounds: The Buffet of Balanced Bats Now that your pitching is locked down, it's time to build a lineup that would make Babe Ruth himself jealous. This is where the real strategy (and fun) begins. Here's the key: balance. You need a mix of power hitters (think Joey Gallo – launch angle for days!), contact guys who can get on base (hello, Juan Soto!), and speedy dudes who steal bags like they're going out of style (cue Billy Hamilton sprinting around the bases). Resist the urge to just grab all the highest overall players – a well-rounded team will crush the competition.
Step 2: Don't Be That Guy (But Maybe a Little Bit)
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The Art of the Steal (Without Actually Stealing) Fantasy drafts are a hotbed of psychological warfare. Here's your chance to be a master manipulator (but within the bounds of, you know, not being a jerk). Notice someone really wants a specific player? Feigned Disinterest is your friend. Act like you're not interested, then BAM! Snag that player right before their eyes. Just be prepared for some serious trash talk after the pick (bonus points if you make a dramatic villainous monologue about your master plan).
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The "Sleeper" Pick: Your Secret Weapon Every draft has its hidden gems – young players with breakout potential or veterans with something to prove. Do your research! Scout some potential "sleepers" who might explode this season. Drafting a breakout star can be the difference between a first-round bye and a participation trophy (participation trophies are cool, but winning is cooler).
Step 3: Remember, It's a Game (But You Still Want to Win)
At the end of the day, fantasy baseball is about having fun with friends (or friendly acquaintances you tolerate for the sake of competition). Don't take it too seriously. If your first pick gets injured mid-season, well, that's baseball. Just grab a beer, crack some jokes at your opponent's expense (because, hey, that's the whole point!), and enjoy the ride.
Bonus Tip: Name your team something hilarious and slightly embarrassing. Trust me, your league will never forget "The Bartolo Colon Experience" or "Vlad Jr.'s Waffle House Sponsors."
With these tips in your arsenal, you're well on your way to becoming a fantasy baseball legend (or at least the guy who everyone secretly fears). Now go forth, draft like a champion, and may the baseball gods shower you with dingers and strikeouts!
