Here are some well known "types" of drafters
in strat start up leagues.
A) The "classic" strat drafter. He(she) gets the best starting players available in the first 4 rounds. Usually a great bopper first (guys love oba/slg/def/speed guys). Then they grab the best available starters. Rounding their starting lineups, with best available young players. It is after that is done, they set sights on a mix of young platooners. Good Game, Good Platooners then Youth.
B) The GM who opts for Pitching staff pix early. This manager rounds out the field with best cards according to their personal ratings. This GM rounds the later picks with a healthy mix of platooners and gambles.
C) The fourth type is the "All American Superstar Drafter". This GM will go for the biggest stars and brightest name talent available throughout his key draft spots in the first 15 rounds. Often these players have a market value they can feed off later on in the season. Many players are drafted on reputation. And why not? Strat does give certain players better card season based on past performance. We all know these types. This manager doesnt regard the mathematical aspect of strat in as high esteem.
D) The "Techno-Drafter" This GM Drafts classically in the first few rounds usually through round 4. Then we start seing what appears to be some bizzare choices. Some ask what was the screw up there, but upon closer scrutinization, an experienced GM can see the player was trying to take advantage of the mathematical formulas of the game (see article about chance % percentages) by drafting great...Mutant cards. Theres that word again, Mutant. Did you see some of those cards yet? Last year Rudy Pemeberton, Tom Gordon, etc..
E) This GM has his sights set on the hotest young prospects. Often drafting the "5 tool"/ 4 pitch 95 mph fastballer types high within the first 6-7 rounds. These GM's usually arent expecting to win in the first few seasons. They look to build slow, or deal for talent. Often drafting for innings, and AB's later. In theory like speculation.
TRADING MARKETS
Its easy to see two different markets
that will evolve from these patterns. Managers will value their players
based on their individual philosophies. The draft is a key time to be astute
and notice the patterns, because it may help you in dealing with your fellow
GM's.