I’m in sixth place right now in The Hardball Times head-to-head fantasy league, which I consider a fine place to be. I’d be in the playoffs if they started today, and I think I have as strong a team as any other. But it’s still tough not to worry every time I start to lose.
This week, I’m playing Joe Distelheim‘s team, which happens to be in first place at the moment. I was hoping that a strong showing here would really solidify me as a contender and help me make up some ground. Instead, I’m down 6-4.
Why? My pitchers have all decided to simultaneously suck. Jose Contreras gave up 7 runs in 5.1 innings Monday, Todd Jones gave up two runs and got just one out while blowing a save in his only appearance this week, and just yesterday, Armando Benitezbalked twice before giving up a game-winning home run to Carlos Delgado. Overall, my team has racked up an 8.16 ERA and 2.02 WHIP this week, with my three closers combining for zero saves.
The good news is that Joe has just one save and I actually lead him in strikeouts 12-11, but the pitchers have really blown it for me so far. I could still end up winning seven categories and having a good week, but it would be a lot easier if there were more categories in play. The fact is, this match up could just as easily end with a 9-1 blowout loss as it could with a 7-3 win.
Sometimes, fantasy baseball is just so frustrating.
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David Gassko is a former consultant to a major league team. He welcomes comments via e-mail.
