Which brings up another point, although I always attempt to win, I am content with a 2nd or 3rd place finish because we are playing for real money. I suppose I would be more prone to make dumb risky trades if there was no money involved. (I sense another thread, but its too late to do it now)
This year, finishing 3rd behind the two rookies, I was 1 point out of first with one week left then had a BRUTAL final pitching week.
Last year, finishing 2nd, I made a tremedous comeback to tie the first place team with 10 days left, but fell short.
Three years ago, I won.
Four years ago, I also finished 2nd in a close fight.
Five years ago, I finished 4th, because I got way too cocky at the draft table and walked away with the one and only baseball team I wasn't happy with on draft night.
Six years ago, I finished third... cant see I really remember the circumstances. Although I think this was the year I experimented with carrying an EMPTY SPOT rather than replace an injured catcher with a scrub.
Seven years ago, in my first season, I was KILLED by injuries. I say this because the league rules at the time, were soooo stupid that I actually couldnt replace my injured players. We immediately switched to the "standard" rules the next year.
I might actually be missing a year or two somehow. It sure seems Ive been playing since before 97. not sure.
My point is simply that I NEVER play for 2nd or 3rd. I attempt to win. Even in my ridiculous basketball comeback, I always knew if i caught the right breaks I could WIN and not just climb into the money. I always try to win. I'm just not bitterly angry in 2nd or 3rd as I would be if I actually had to PAY my entry fee

"Baseball is like church. Many attend. Few understand." -- Leo Durocher