Posted by Kevin Jacobs, Sun Staff

Even though it’s still mid-February I’m excited. Ecstatic is really a better word for it. Baseball is finally back!

With temperatures in the high 40’s and 50’s the past few days, it’s clear that Spring is knocking on our door, and with Wednesday’s sunny weather in particular, we all remembered why we love New England. But there’s something else that I’m even more excited for…baseball.

As of yesterday pitchers and catchers began reporting to their respective camps in Arizona and Florida. Yes, that means Josh Beckett, John Smoltz, Dice-K, Jonathan Papelbon, and even Jason Varitek are in Fort Myers to begin working out the kinks.

It’s a day I look forward to all year long, and I can’t help myself from constantly smiling as I write this. My co-workers probably think I’ve gone insane, “the Joker” style.

Over the next few days position players will begin filtering into the locker rooms, diamonds will be meticulously manicured, and the heavenly sound of wood impacting leather will reverberate throughout the country.

However, the athletes, general managers, and owners aren’t the only ones who will have all the fun this spring. Fantasy sports sites everywhere are finally opening registration for their baseball seasons, and I’m one of the millions of eager fans to come pouring though the virtual turnstiles.

Fantasy football claims to be the “ultimate” cyber sport, but personally I think it’s boring. Sure, it gives a meaningless Lions-Texans game some shred of importance, but really it’s for amateurs. With almost no knowledge of the game you can assemble a competitive team. Just watch one episode of SportsCenter and you’re ready to go.

Fantasy baseball takes knowledge of the game, it’s players, and a dedication to your team. With so many stats and positions the live drafts may take hours, but in the end they’re worth it. Every squad has it’s own personality, a unique touch provided by each virtual manager.

Maybe you like to go with a combination of speed, batting average, and strike-out pitchers. Maybe it’s stockpiling as many power hitters as possible, and punting the closer position. It all takes planning and strategy.

Personally, my favorite fantasy league provides me with a way to stay connected with friends I’m lucky to see once a year now that college is over. The 12 of us started the league five years ago, and plan to continue it… forever.

Some people complain about having to update their squads everyday, but I take pride in running out the best team possible on a daily basis. Just like the “real” sport itself, fantasy baseball is about more than just the game. It’s about pride, fun, and friendship.

After all, if I’m good enough I’ll be taking money from my best friends, which is always a good feeling.

If you’ve got any fantasy questions, sleepers, or top picks let us know!