[DirectorTsaarx]

I usually use the destroyer in "early" game, because I usually spend research on racial techs fairly early on. Once the Light Cruiser is available, I'll use that. The Cruiser I only use for Space Yards. The extra control requirements, etc. mean it's not much better than the LC for combat; I'd rather wait to get the Battle Cruiser and phase out the LC's for BC's.

For late game, I generally go with baseships as "flagships", escorted by BB's or DN's. The BB's are fast enough to engage the enemy, generally slowing them down enough for the Baseship to arrive and finish the job. I've also experimented with putting fighter bays on baseships, with less success (usual problems with fighters in late game when everyone has lots of PDC). I keep using LC's in late game to carry repair bays, as dedicated PDC ships, or as boarding vessels.