Thomas enters the year with 448 career home runs, meaning he needs 52 to break the magic number of 500. I don't want to be a pessimist, but he's never hit more than 43 in a season. . . and he may not enter April completely ready to play.

But even so, given his problems the past two years he'll probably be available as a late-game pickup in your fantasy draft, and he'd be well worth taking a flyer on. I'd be willing to call a .270-30-85 season a rousing success -- anything more than that would be pure gravy.

I am looking to join some competitive fantasy baseball leagues this season.  I'm willing to spend $20 to $50 to join a league.  If anybody is aware of some solid leages let me know.  Thanks
                       ZachattaX

are you goin to spring training? like are you gonna be stayin at the team hotel or what?

I'm not THAT Matt Watson. . . I'm just a writer, not the ballplayer.

Also check the home stats. Thomas goes from a launching pad to a pitchers park, and the cavernous foul ground at the Coliseum takes 20 points off everyone's batting average.

I'm an A's fan that loves the signing, because he's going to get on base and keep Chavez from outthinking himself as the #4 hitter. But all I'm hopng for is .255, 25, 75. Marginal pick in most leagues.

DMt