1) I have been in 2 real time leagues with this manager. His teams are all named Force. I have also made some trades with him, and he's a VERY active trader, so I would never accuse him of only trading with some kind of `minor league` affiliate team. His modus operandi is to makes zillions of offers, generate some response, and the expand the deal to where he comes out one good player, or significant PB value ahead. My dealings have been the result of many, many feelers, a very few of which have been pursued. I have not found this manager to be dishonest.

2) That said, I have noticed that inexperienced (and sometimes other) managers are on thin ice in these negotiations. I always expect to overpay for a specific player I like or for immediate help. I also try to extract extra value when rebuilding. But, my experience with the Force is that he's out looking for the unbalanced trade all the time, rather than a 'help both teams' type deal.

3) It's my belief that a good league requires managers who like each other and come to trust each other. As I said, I don't think the Force manager is dishonest. I do think he's overly aggressive in his deals, but that's just my opinion.

4) I'll probably continue my dealings with him, since he's always ready to trade, and is very creative. He's never sent me damaged goods. I don't think his relentless style helps a league, but his activity level certainly does.

Eddie/Mt Washington/2000 RT2