How do you deal with the myriad of draft/auction “rules?”

Before my fellow Fantasy Generals begin their earnest draft and auction preparation, I just wanted to make a short post on following the various auction and draft rules that are out there to guide us on the path to success. Just in the past week I have seen lots of them:

1. Don’t spend more than $30
2. Don’t spend a lot on pitching.
3. Avoid rookies.
4. Etc. etc. etc.

I will have more to say on this but rest assured my position here is clear, and before things heat up we shoud be aware that there is only ONE rule that should be followed. None of the above are the correct rules or guidelines. There is only one, and to it the General must adhere in every decision.

Of course, that rule is that there are no rules. While these well meaning maxims have merit to beginnners, the more advanced player has less to gain. Even worse, those who play against tough competitors in leagues with large inflation and difficult scarcity issues will probably hurt themselves in the process.

No self-respecting General would adhere to hoary dicta such as the above. That is not to say the principles behind these rules do not have merit; in fact there is much to be said in favor of the principles underscoring the above rules, and many others for that matter.

That said, any general rules should be followed only by coincidence; that is, when they coincide with our grand strategy. These rules are not ends in themselves to be followed anymore than the pursuit of value is an end in itself. They are means to an end.