So you've finished your draft and now you think you can send your team down the fantasy highway on cruise control? That attitude will land you on the shoulder with the hood up and no help in sight. Don't let April's opportunities pass you by.

Closer to Fine

The shaky ground where closers stand is especially unpredictable early on. Philadelphia, Baltimore, Texas and the Cubs could well have job openings by May. The most interesting scenario will play out in Tampa Bay, where Ken Hill, Esteban Yan and Tanyon Sturtze will battle for the job. A real gambler will grab Sturtze now. He mowed 'em down at a K per inning this spring.

Deal Steals

You can bet a few would-be contenders will move to patch holes quickly. Take a flyer on youngsters like Jays five-tool OF Vernon Wells and Rays power-hitting 3B Aubrey Huff. They'll have sudden impact if Jose Cruz Jr. and Vinny Castilla get dealt for arms. Also, you and I -- well, I -- have known for years that John Vander Wal is a way better hitter than Derek Bell. He'll prove it once and for all if the Bucs move him to a team like Seattle, where he'd be slipped into the catbird seat in front of Edgar Martinez.

Spring Flings

Career years start with one hot month. Jose Vidro set an example for other stiffs, hitting .356 last April. I make room for anyone with ability who comes out swinging. (Except Mike Bordick!) Keep an eye on Pirates perennial prospect 3B Aramis Ramirez. This dude had one sweet spring (.372, 4 HRs, 3 SBs). Careful, though -- over the past three years, once the hot weather rolls around, phew!

E-mail The Gamer at GamerRules@go.com.