Year One of Roto500 was a success that came with some interesting learning on the new format. Based on owner feedback from the initial Roto500 leagues in Toronto and New York, there have been some rule changes to improve the game. They promise to have very interesting impacts on Roto500 strategy.

Last week's BBG about adjusting Mayberry using Rel scores drew a relatively large number of comments, one of which asked if we had back-tested the concept using 2011 data. We hadn’t, but it seemed like a swell idea. And let it never be said that we aren’t ready to exploit someone else’s swell idea!

[free] Embrace volatility. That’s the mantra for Xtreme Regression Drafting (XRD), as espoused by Ron Shandler in the 2012 Forecaster and in an essay from earlier this year. As Ron points out, “regression and gravity are the two strongest forces known to man.” In theory, that’s straightforward—but how hard is it to do in practice?

OF Corey Hart will likely miss his second consecutive Opening Day for the Brewers after undergoing undergoing knee surgery. And NYM 1B Ike Davis reportedly has Valley Fever.

Expectations were high for Adrian Gonzalez (1B, BOS) after he joined the Red Sox prior to the 2011 season. The transition to the AL East and the pressure of playing in Boston did not seem to phase Gonzalez as all he did was post the best all-around season of his career thus far...

Guys like Felipe Paulino (RHP, KC) can help you earn a profit from your starting rotations this season.

When Yonder Alonso was traded to San Diego, it was assumed he would be plugged into the starting 1B spot, but the incumbent might have something to say about that. We also cover at the White Sox' new-look outfield and reserve infielders in Toronto ...

The common wisdom is that punting categories is a bad idea. But I think you need to put it into its proper perspective.

For years we have preached not to overplay the scarcity card. Despite depth at second base, however, few late values exist. Managers overrate scarcity throughout the draft. So here, it may pay to take a superstar who mans the keystone early, because their production will equal their actual value.

Spring training reports indicate that Stephen Drew (SS, ARI) is coming along slowly in his return from season-ending surgery after a July ankle fracture. Drew is unlikely to be ready for opening day, and could miss a sizable early chunk of the season. Competing for PT in his absence are veteran utilityman Willie Bloomquist (SS/OF, ARI) and venerable good-field, no-hit infielder John McDonald (SS/2B/3B, ARI).

Freddie Freeman (1B, ATL) led all National League Rookies in BA (.282), hits (161), doubles (32), HR (21), RBI (76), OBA (.346) and SLG (.448) in 2011 ... what can he do for an encore?