...Also, I don't really see how this makes for stronger 800 free relay, unless you're thinking 3 less 200 races will allow him to be fresher for the relay.
That is exactly what Phelps and Bowman said (in U.S.A. Today); Michael wants to be fresh for the relay. At his age, he doesn't feel he can recover quickly enough to give his best effort to the relay. And, the relay is his priority over 200 free.
...Also, I don't really see how this makes for stronger 800 free relay, unless you're thinking 3 less 200 races will allow him to be fresher for the relay.
That is exactly what Phelps and Bowman said (in U.S.A. Today); Michael wants to be fresh for the relay. At his age, he doesn't feel he can recover quickly enough to give his best effort to the relay. And, the relay is his priority over 200 free.
