Roto-Rx

Question #1: Now that the 2009 draft signing period has concluded, what team do you think did the best in this year’s draft? – Chris, Atlanta, GA

Chris: Dr. Roto has two answers to this question: 1) The Nationals did the best, especially if Steven Strasburg is as good as the scouts project; 2) This question cannot be answered for at least 3-5 years until we see who has made an impact in the majors. As opposed to the NFL and the NBA where rookies have a big impact, in baseball it can often take years to determine whose scouting was the best.

Question #2: If a batter hits a home run over the fence and gets hurt swinging and can’t even make it to first base, what happens? – George, Stamford, CT

George: Thanks for the question, George. Dr. Roto is more of a fantasy player expert than a MLB rules expert, but if I am correct, in the event a hitter cannot complete his home run trot, a pinch runner can be inserted for him.

Question #3: Fantasy Football season is upon us. What do you consider a harder task, being routinely successful in Fantasy Baseball or being routinely successful in Fantasy Football? – Robert, Philadelphia, PA

Robert: Love this question, Robert. Many people have asked Dr. Roto over the years which sport he finds easier. In truth, it is all about predictability. Football is very volatile due to the injury factor as well as the schedule. So, for instance, you can have the best team for 14 weeks and make the playoffs in your fantasy football league. But, if in Week 15 your team has bad matchups, you may end up losing in the playoffs. In fantasy baseball, that seldom occurs. Players may be streaky, but they normally play to expectation level. Baseball, however, is more of a grind. Players play most everyday and the minor leaguers that come up during the year often make an impact on the outcome. The key to success in both sports is preparation (and patience).

Question #4: If you had room to protect only one based on performance expectation alone for next year, who would you protect, Chris Tillman or Mat Latos? – Ralph, San Jose, CA

Ralph: Dr. Roto has one axiom that must be followed: try to avoid young AL EAST pitchers whenever possible. So, although Dr. Roto likes Tillman, he does not like the fact that 10 of Tillman's starts come against the Yankees, Red Sox, Rays, and Jays. For that reason, plus the fact that Latos is a great strikeout pitcher. Dr. Roto will put his money on Latos.

Question 5: What MLB team did the best job at the trading deadline this year? – Vincent, Lynbrook, NY

Vincent: Dr. Roto likes what Kenny Williams and the White Sox have done. Getting Jake Peavy was a steal and picking up Alex Rios on waivers was worth the risk. The South Side of Chicago should be happy!

Bonus Question: Lots of talk in NY this week on the radio about Gil Hodges and the hall of fame. Do you think he should be in? – Scott, Babylon, NY

Scott: Dr. Roto needs all New Yorkers to step back for a second and try to be objective. Is Hodges a HOF because he was the Amazin's manager in 1969, or because he was one of the best 1B of his time? It's a close call here...370 HR are a bit short, as is the career .273 BA. The Gold Gloves help, as does his managerial success. Tough one...but Dr. Roto will say no HOF for Hodges.

The Doctor is out...

Mark Bloom (aka Dr. Roto) is the former owner of Roto-Rx, a fantasy website featured in a UPN newscast. He has been an active competitor and commissioner in fantasy leagues for close to 20 years winning numerous league titles.

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