Fan News

Choosing the right name can make even the worst fantasy baseball season memorable.

Nothing's worse than seeing an owner choose the same recycled name over and over again, or simply going for the low-hanging fruit and picking something that lost originality years ago. Jeters Never Prosper was clever the first time you heard it. Then you heard it again and again and again, and it lost the originality it once had.

Los Angeles Angels star outfielder Mike Trout has taken the whole "Best Shape of His Life" business in a completely new direction, and he has created some rather pressing questions as a result.

Justin Morneau, in the final year of a six-year, $80 million deal that will pay him $19 million this season, will likely be shopped around if the Twins fall out of contention in the AL Central.

The 2006 AL MVP told 1500ESPN.com's Judd Zulgad that he hopes to remain with the Twins this season, and beyond...but with a hitch. 

The Seattle Mariners’ farm system is one of the best in the game, with a majority of their top prospects stashed at Double-A or above.

The 10-year, $275 million contract Alex Rodriguez signed in 2007 is one of the biggest mistakes in the history of the New York Yankees. The only good thing that can be said about it is that it has taught the Yankees precisely where they should draw the line when it comes to long-term contracts.

Heading into the 2013 MLB season, the New York Mets will be an intriguing team to follow. With good health and a few lucky breaks, they could be competitive throughout the summer.

Overall, this club wasn't impressive in 2012. New York finished fourth in the NL East standings (again) and drew the lowest total attendance since opening Citi Field.

Even though spring training is only a few days old, there are numerous highly regarded prospects that have already generated a favorable buzz. Granted, it has come in the form of a batting practice session or light bullpen—but hey, it counts.

Most fantasy baseball owners enter the draft focused on getting a franchise hitter. Somebody like Ryan Braun, Miguel Cabrera or Mike Trout who can pace an offense. While that's sound strategy, it's crucial to land a staff ace, as well.

Since the opening round is usually heavy on hitters, the top-tier pitchers often last into the second round. At that point, owners have a decision to make. Pair their top hitter with another slugger like Giancarlo Stanton or start building a pitching staff.

It all ended tragically for the Atlanta Braves in 2012, but they're heading into 2013 knowing that they were right there with the best teams in the National League last season.

They're also heading into 2013 knowing that they're a much-improved team. The Braves aren't just a legit postseason contender. They're a legit World Series contender.