MLS Fantasy 2014: Ch-ch-changes

I'm back as Black and Red United's fantasy advisor this season, and the changes in MLS Fantasy that were announced today have caused me to spring into action. What's on deck for 2014?

Rosters

- Players will get $120 million to put together their roster this year, which will now consist of 18 players: 2 goalkeepers, 6 defenders, 6 midfielders, and 4 forwards.

- Teams may now have no more than four players from one team on their roster.

Scoring

- No penalty will apply to players who miss a big chance, which would be a big reprieve for Lionard Pajoy.

- Players will receive 3 points for logging a 2nd assist.

- Two points will go to a player who earns a penalty, but this does not apply to handling.

- One point will go to a player who "assists" on an own goal. Basically the last player on the team benefiting from an own goal to touch the ball before it goes in gets a point.

Substitutions

- Automatic substitutions will no longer occur.

- Vice captains no longer exist

- Managers will be able to make changes to their starting lineup at any point, provided that an involved player's team has not played or kicked off their match.

Scheduling

- The 2014 MLS Fantasy season will end with the conclusion of round 33. There will be no playoff fantasy soccer.

MLSsoccer.com is also boasting "research" and "advice" tabs to help players prepare for each round, as well as a "chatter" section where you'll be able to discuss MLS Fantasy with other players.

As we get a little closer to the start of the season, I'll be back with an MLS Fantasy Preview. Until then, enjoy the preseason!