Live Chat With Todd Zola: Tuesday, 7 pm ET

[ToddZ]

Let's say there are certain positional runs that are more extreme than normal. In recent 50-round drafts, I have seen (in different drafts) very big runs on RPs, MIs and CIs. When that happens, part of me doesn't want to get left with scraps, but, typically, my stronger urge is not to reach for a player using a much higher pick than what I think the player is worth, so I tend to go against the grain and stock up on other positions, figuring I will be better overall with stronger players at most positions even if that leaves me very weak at one position.

How do you handle that situation, especially when you are drafting close to one end (where you have a big gap between some picks). Is your strategy different for RPs versus batters?

Thanks again for sharing your perspectives.

Mike

I want closers and starting pitching but I won't force any other positions. Eventually there will be someone at every spot able to give me a return of invenstment relative to his draft spot.

[rkulaski]

Greg,

Here's a request to have Todd do this once more before the start of the season.

[Edwards Kings]

All hail Lord Zola! Numerish King of αριθμός (pronounced Arithmos for you not versed in Greek).

Seriously, thanks for your insight, Todd. As always balanced and informative.

[ToddZ]

Thanks guys -- we can keep the thread open. It's not like I don't pop into the forum a couple times a day. Ok, an hour.

[hot and cold]

I agree nice read thanks for the info .

[Edwards Kings]

OK. You asked for it!

Do you still consider yourself more of an auction guy?

Contract year for Josh Johnson. Do you see him as a one of your second, third, or fourth tier guys?

[ToddZ]

OK. You asked for it!

Do you still consider yourself more of an auction guy?

Contract year for Josh Johnson. Do you see him as a one of your second, third, or fourth tier guys?

Yes, still more of an auction guy and very stoked to be back at the AL and NL auctions in Vegas.

Contract year is irrelevant - I see Johnson as a tier 3 guy. FWIW, tier one is Verlander and Kershaw and that's it. Strasburg is more in between 1 and 2. The innings deficit drops him lower than those guys.

[chest .rockwell]

Not a question but a comment. I hope this is the year you do very well in the nfbc. You are a good dude and work very hard to make this hobby better. Good luck...

[ToddZ]

In your mind, who is the most likely candidate(s) to be taken lightly by NFBC drafters, but finishing in first rounds of drafts next year?

OK, got another after doing his profile and hearing some comments from people whose opinions I value ---

Austin Jackson.

I'm not sure he fits the taken lightly part, but he has the power/speed combo to meet the finishing in first round part.