Using a pure starter as a reliever...

[magnotti]

Hi all,

I have drafted what I hope is a pretty good team for the 1999 season with 4 good SP* pitchers.

http://fantasygames.sportingnews.com/stratomatic/team/team_other.html?user_id=236066

My only issue is the computer also drafted Bret Saberhagen, who is a pure S5 with good stats. I was thinking of going to 4 man rotation and using Saberhagen as a middle man reliever. Can this be done with a pitcher with out a reliever rating? Is this a good strategy?

Thanks all!

[Palmtana]

HAL won't use Saberhagen in relief. Having a 4 at 2B and a 3 in CF will most likely lead to a disappointing year. There's not much to choose from the FA's. I would at least get Valerde (OB, pop, speed, 680 PA) to improve your range a notch at 2B. You could use some of Saberhagens $ to upgrade your catcher position. Both of the guys you have now are bad vs. RHP. Mayne is available. 40 OB on both sides. Mega-doubles. Good luck!

[magnotti]

So you are advocating just dropping Saberhagen? I know he is not great, but it seems like a waste. Maybe trade bait?

[Palmtana]

Since you already have 4 * SP's, keeping him would be a waste. Definitely trade or drop.

[MARCPELLETIER]

In a 100K league, I'm sure Saberhagen has pretty good value. You should not have any difficulty dealing him if you keep yourself flexible. But I agree with palmtana that, at this stage, you'll have a better team if you can use that 5M otherwise.

[magnotti]

Thanks guys, your insight is appreciated. Looks like no one is taking the bait, so I will just drop before the penalty comes up.