1. OVERREACTING TO SHORT SAMPLE SIZES

Is a typically good hitter going through a slump? Is an average hitter suddenly turning into Babe Ruth? One of the most common mistakes is overreacting to short sample sizes. An owner sees a player doing better than expected and gives up too much in a trade to get him, later when that player comes back down to earth the owner is filled with regret. What about an owner who rushes to trade a slumping player for a minimal return, then watches him play like he expected him to (when he acquired him), for a different team? Yes players decline and yes others break out, but that’s why you need to do your research. BABIP, HR/FB and Hard Hit% for hitters, and FIP and BABIP for pitchers are what you should look at before giving up on or getting excited over a player.

2. NOT PAYING ATTENTION TO THE WAIVER WIRE

Owners drop good players for stupid reasons all the time. Maybe they panicked too early over a slump, or maybe they don’t want to carry a player on the DL, but this is a great chance for you to scoop up bargains. Check daily to see if anyone of value has been dropped.

3. NOT BEING ON TOP OF THINGS

Similarly to the problem above, an owner can be too late to pick up a player who is breaking out or just having a great season from the waiver wire. An owner can also be too late to pick up a player who just became a closer. You can miss out on great opportunities to improve your roster by not being up to date with what’s going on in the baseball world.

4. HAVING A BAD REPUTATION WITH OTHER OWNERS

Imagine having a perfect trade idea in mind only to have the other owner refuse to even talk with you. Insulting other owners for not accepting your trades or being ahead of you in the league can only hurt you. The same can be said for sending insulting trade offers. How would you feel if someone offered you Marcus Semien for Bryce Harper and then told you how they’re doing you a favor?! If you’re offering a trade, don’t pretend that you’re losing it when you both know that you’re not. Don’t offer unrealistic trades. Be respectful and fair, and others will be more likely to treat you the same way. Before making a trade, consider the pre-auction/draft player values and make sure that your trade offer’s total value falls within $10 or a draft round of the total value that the other team trades.

5. GIVING UP ON A SEASON TOO EARLY

Don’t give up on your season in April. If you’re in last place in September, then sure you can give up, but don’t be discouraged if you’re not doing good otherwise. Analyze your team: are some of your players going through unsustainable slumps? Can you improve in an area? Don’t give up unless you definitely have no chance at winning your league.

6. BENCHING YOUR TOP HITTERS DUE TO BAD MATCHUPS

I don’t care if Mike Trout is facing Clayton Kershaw, you don’t bench your stars. Too many times superstars have big games even when facing aces, especially if you’re playing in a Rotisserie league. I mean you have the player because you expect certain stats from him at the end of the season, so trust that he will.

7. SETTLING OR GIVING UP TOO MUCH IN TRADES

No matter what do not settle for a lesser return or give up too much. This is an easy way to end up with a weaker team and ultimately lose your league. Think about it from the other side, would you do this trade? Ask on forums such as Rotoworld.com if you’re not sure, or ask me on Twitter: @NeilfromNYC

I hope that this was helpful and let me know what you think in the comments!