Just when I get out, something tries to pull me back in.
In the Tuesday, April 22 edition of the News-Optimist, I wrote that I was hanging up my fantasy cleats, skates or sneakers. There were too many talented professional athletes succumbing to the "Brett Jinx" for me to continue with a clear conscience.
Then, Wednesday afternoon, I got a text from my brother. He had a fantasy football draft that evening, but the time conflicted with his baseball game. So, he wanted me to do it for him.
I panicked. Who cares if I screwed up one of my own leagues in the past. If I messed up my brother's, I might have to rethink my trip home for the holidays.
First, was it time to head back into the fantasy sports world already? I mean, I announced my retirement only four months ago.
Second, I had nothing prepared. Because of my retirement, I haven't looked at anything relating to fantasy predictions or depth charts to figure out which rookie is going to start over a seasoned veteran. I hummed and hawed about it, before my brother finally reassured me by saying, "Well it's better than pre-rankings."
Thanks for the confidence boost.
As I scrambled to read predictions and crunch numbers in the half an hour between when I finished work and the draft started, I opened the league's website to log into the draft. Then, I felt like I was being saved. The draft started three hours later than my brother told me. A tidal wave of relief knocked me back safely on my sofa. I called to let him know the good news, but he told me it would be cutting it close for him to make the start of the draft after his game. I'd still have to make the first couple of picks for him. However, I'd be able to call or text him to get the player that he actually wanted.
When the draft started, I was on the phone with my brother to make his first pick. He told me he'd be home in time for the next one. But, the round moved too quickly. All of a sudden, we're into the fifth of 16 rounds and I'm still calling him to make the picks. It wasn't until the seventh round that I was booted out of the lobby.
Once again, I panicked. I called my brother. He told me he got into the draft and thanked me for my help. I said I deserve a cut of the winnings if he wins any money.
And that will be my only foray into fantasy sports this year. However, I have not been without temptations elsewhere.
As pro leagues begin, I find invitations to re-up in previous fantasy leagues. Not just one email either. If I don't respond to one, I'll be getting two more later in the week. They're hard to ignore as it's a connection to my friends.
And that's just for football. I was in three hockey and three basketball leagues last year as well. The invitations will only come more often in the approaching weeks. I'll have to ignore each and every one.
However, I can sleep well at night knowing I won't be ruining any seasons or careers this season.
Well, except for Peyton Manning, Demaryius Thomas, Arian Foster, Doug Martin, Rob Gronkowski and Michael Crabtree. You were selected by two Smiths. You guys don't have a chance in the world.
