Curveballs and Sliders 02.12.08: Spring Training Preview
Posted by Jared Marcus on 02.12.2008
This week in Curveballs and Sliders we tell you everything you need to know about Spring Training. All the reporting dates, all the first game action, all the important position battles and all the notable non-roster invitees. Plus the 10 Greatest Prospects for 2008!!!
LEADING OFF
Hello and welcome to a very special edition of Curveballs and Sliders, The Spring Training Preview. Of course this is the greatest time of year for a baseball fan (well, short of October if your team is still alive), as Pitchers and Catchers will report later this week for all 30 MLB franchises.
The beginning of Spring Training for your team is one of the great sports days of the year as hope and optimism are at their highest levels. This ideal has gotten even greater in recent years as competitive balance becomes more and more of a reality and more and more teams begin the season with hopes of October baseball. In fact, entering Spring Training I would say that only the fans of the Pirates, Royals, Marlins, Nationals and Orioles can completely write off 2008, and all of those teams other than the Orioles have reason to believe that this season will be better than last. As for me, well I am very excited this week and I will probably continue to get more and more excited each week going forward. The next two months are absolutely the best time of year to be a sports fan (Spring Training/Baseball begins, March Madness, The Masters, Wrestlemania) and I can't wait to see what happens. Before we begin, let's quickly review some of the comments from last week's column.
Maruf writes .. Welcome back!
Hey Maruf, thanks for the wishes. It was great to see you as the first responder to my return column and appropriate since you were one of the first to e-mail me during my first run with 411. You always were able to provide some great comments and questions and I look forward to more participation from you in the future.
Both Guest#8514 and kjuggs wrote about how the platoon of Geoff Jenkins and Jayson Werth will do better this season than Aaron Rowand
Guys, thanks for the comments and let me just say, I don't necessarily disagree with you. The point I was making was not that they would be better having signed Aaron Rowand, just that they are weaker in that spot than they were a year ago. While Rowand is unlikely to duplicate his '07 season (.309 AVG, 189 H, 27 HR, 89 RBI, 105 R, .889 OPS), especially in AT&T Park, it will be even more unlikely that the Jenkins/Werth platoon will be able to match it. Perhaps it was a break out season for Rowand and he would have put up similar numbers if he stayed in Philly, but I agree he wasn't worth $12 mil. However, there is no way they will get that kind of production out of that platoon, so they will need to find those Runs and RBI somewhere else. Not to mention the extreme drop the tradeoff provides in terms of outfield defense. There is no argument to be made that the one outfield spot in Philly will not be as good this year as it was last year, it is fact.
I would also like to thank anyone else who posted kind thoughts on my return, I do appreciate it whether you are new to the column, or were a reader dating back my first time around. Either way, I hope all of you keep coming back to debate and discuss baseball, after all, there are few things in life that are more fun.
Now let's get into the column
THE TWO HOLE
NATIONAL LEAGUE SPRING TRAINING PREVIEW
(Note: The Non-Roster Invitee sections do not include any rookies or top prospects that may be in camp. I only listed former Major Leaguers or former top prospects that fit into one of the following groups A) legitimate candidates to make the roster, B) players with potential to surprise or C) player's that you can't believe are still attempting to pursue baseball as a career.)
ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS Location: Tucson, AZ Stadium: Tucson Electric Park Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 15 First Game: Feb. 28, vs. Rockies Position Battles: With both the D-Backs lineup and rotation all but set there isn't much to look for heading into Spring Training. In fact the only spot that looked like it would have a competition was Closer and manager Bob Melvin put that race to an end before it even began last week by naming Brandon Lyon as his guy. Still keep an eye on that situation as its possible Tony Pena could unseat Lyon with a strong spring. The only other story to watch is Chad Tracy's return from injury, though even with a strong spring he is not likely to earn a starting job unless he is traded. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Tim Raines Jr. (OF)
ATLANTA BRAVES Location: Kissimmee, FL Stadium: Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 14 First Game: Feb. 28, at Dodgers Position Battles: Last year there was a lot of uncertainty around the Braves heading into Spring Training, and luckily for them they sorted it all out through the course of the season. Because of that there is not much up in the air entering Spring Training this season. Mark Kotsay's arrival means competition for the Center Field job is off, leaving only left field open to any sort of race, though Matt Diaz is a heavy, heavy favorite. If anything they would end up working Brandon Jones into a lefty/righty platoon with him. The only real competition in Braves camp will be for the fifth starter's spot. The early favorite is Mike Hampton but they depends heavily on his health, which of course is always a big if. If Hampton is not ready to go, look for the job to fall to a young prospect such as Jair Jurrjens or Jo-Jo Reyes. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Matt DeSalvo (P), Ryan Drese (P), Javy Lopez (C) (yes, the same Javy Lopez that was their 1996 NLCS MVP), Joe Borchard (OF)
CHICAGO CUBS Location: Mesa, AZ Stadium: HoHoKam Park Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 13 First Game: Feb. 28, at Giants Position Battles: The Cubs have quite a few battles heading into the Spring, most notably on the pitching front. Their first three starters are set, but there will be an open competition for the other two spots with up to five pitchers competing for them. Jon Lieber is a favorite to land one of the spots since the Cubs seemingly promised him one when they signed him. Not sure why they did either of those two things when they had several candidates in house, but whatever. That would leave one rotation spot left with Jason Marquis, Ryan Dempster, Sean Marshall and the longshot, Sean Gallagher all competing for it. The role of Closer is also up for grabs with Kerry Wood, Carlos Marmol and Bobby Howry all trying to win the job. In terms of lineup they are pretty much set, though Felix Pie could lose the Center Field job to Sam Fuld if he struggles this Spring. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Chad Fox (P), Shingo Takatsu (P), J.D. Closser (C), Koyie Hill (C)
CINCINNATI REDS Location: Sarasota, FL Stadium: Ed Smith Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 16 First Game: Feb. 27, at Phillies Position Battles: The Reds seemed to have finally cleared the way in Center Field for Super Prospect Jay Bruce when they traded Josh Hamilton, but it now seems like they may prefer to keep him in Triple-A a little while longer. If they do, Ryan Freel, Norris Hopper and perhaps a veteran free agent like Kenny Lofton will compete for the position. However, if Bruce has any kind of Spring at all it will be very difficult for the Reds to not bring him North with them when they break camp. There are no other battles among the hitters and for the first time in a long time there will be no Closer competition in Reds camp, however they will hold a competition for the fourth and fifth spots in the rotation. Top Prospect Homer Bailey seems to have a good handle on one of those two spots leaving Jeremy Affeldt and Top Prospects Edinson Volquez and Johnny Cueto to fight for the final spot. Of course the Reds could also come to their senses and bounce Matt Belisle from the rotation leaving another spot for one of the prospects above. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Mike Lincoln (P), Kent Mercker (P), Adam Pettyjohn (P), Scott Sauerbeck (P), Paul Bako (C), Andy Phillips (1B), Craig Wilson (OF)
COLORADO ROCKIES Location: Tucson, AZ Stadium: Hi Corbett Field Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 15 First Game: Feb. 27, at White Sox Position Battles: After a shocking run to the World Series last season, the Rockies didn't make many changes heading into '08. Therefore there won't be many battles in their camp this Spring. The only lineup spot up for grabs is Second Base where Jayson Nix, Marcus Giles, Jeff Baker and Clint Barmes will compete for the spot, with Nix being the early favorite. The only other competition will for the fifth starters spot with Franklin Morales being the in-house favorite to win the role. Morales was decent in a limited role for the team last year and struggled in the postseason giving some the impression he may not yet be ready for a full-time job. The Rockies brought in veterans Josh Towers, Kip Wells, Victor Zambrano and Mark Redman to push Morales for that last spot, though even a shaky Morales would probably be a better bet than any of those names. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Micah Bowie (P), John Koronka (P), Victor Zambrano (P), Marcus Giles (2B), Matt Kata (2B), Scott Podsednik (OF)
FLORIDA MARLINS Location: Jupiter, FL Stadium: Roger Dean Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 17 First Game: Feb. 27, vs. Nationals Position Battles: The Marlins have a very good idea of the team they would like to put on the field on Opening Day, the problem is that the majority of their team is so young that they really can't be sure of anything yet. Cameron Maybin is the favorite to win the Center Field job, but if they deem he is not ready for a full-time gig Cody Ross and Alejandro de Aza will compete for the spot. The same goes with Mike Rabelo at catcher who would give way to Matt Treanor if he starts the season in the Minors. Third Base is a completely open competition with no clear favorite at this point but Jose Castillo, Jorge Cantu and Dallas McPherson will all vie for the opportunity to win the job. And while Josh Willingham is penciled in as the starting Left Fielder, he may be pushed for playing by veteran Luis Gonzalez. The rotation on the other hand is pretty much set, but that is more due to injury concerns rather than confidence. Josh Johnson is out for the season and Anibal Sanchez isn't due back until the All-Star Break. Ricky Nolasco could win a spot if he is healthy, but for now it looks like Rick VandenHurk and Mark Hendrickson are assured of the final two rotation slots. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Tim Corcoran (P), Dallas Trahern (P), Doug Waechter (P), Jorge Cantu (3B), Jason Wood (SS), Alexis Gomez (OF)
HOUSTON ASTROS Location: Kissimmee, FL Stadium: Osceola County Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 13 First Game: Feb. 28, at Indians Position Battles: The lineup is set and so is the bullpen, the only spot up for grabs heading into camp is that of the fifth starter. The favorite heading into Spring Training is Felipe Paulino, but Chris Sampson and Jack Cassel will get a shot as well. Fernando Nieve could factor into the mix as well but he isn't due back until May after undergoing Tommy John surgery a year ago. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Mike DeJean (P), Runelvys Hernandez (P), Brian Moehler (P), Stephen Randolph (P), J.R. House (C), Lance Niekro (1B), Jose Cruz Jr. (OF), Victor Diaz (OF), David Newhan (OF)
LOS ANGELES DODGERS Location: Vero Beach, FL Stadium: Holman Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 14 First Game: Feb. 28, vs. Braves Position Battles: The Dodgers seemingly have a surplus of everything, which is good for them and good for an interesting Spring Training. The signing of Andruw Jones crowded and outfield that already had three legitimate starters. With Matt Kemp not going anywhere the Dodgers are left to figure out who will start in Left Field, Andre Ethier or Juan Pierre. The two are likely to platoon with Pierre getting the majority of the starts. Third Base has a similar problem with incumbent Nomar Garciaparra blocking the way for Top Prospect Andy LaRoche. It's hard to imagine Nomar as a bench player, but it's also hard to imagine the Dodgers keeping LaRoche in the minors any longer. This one will be interesting to watch and may end with Nomar being traded (if anyone will possibly take him that is). The other position that is open heading into camp is the fifth starter's spot, though it obviously belongs to Jason Schmidt if he is healthy. If he is not ready to go the competition for the job will include Esteban Loaiza, Hong-Chih Kuo and Super Prospect Clayton Kershaw. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Jason Johnson (P) (yes, that Jason Johnson), Tom Martin (P), Mike Myers (P), Chan Ho Park (P), Tanyon Sturtze (P), Ramon Martinez (SS), Terry Tiffee (3B), John-Ford Griffin (OF), George Lombard (OF)
MILWAUKEE BREWERS Location: Phoenix, AZ Stadium: Maryvale Baseball Park Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 16 First Game: Feb. 28, vs. A's Position Battles: For the first time in a long time the Brewers lineup is all set heading into Spring Training as that's what comes with success. By contrast the rotation is wide open at the bottom and will feature quite a battle this Spring. The good news for the Brew Crew is that the battle is a necessity out of surplus rather than uncertainty and worry. The top three slots seem set, but there will be as many as five starters competing for the other two spots, every one of them a credible Major League arm. The Brewers seem intent on moving Carlos Villanueva out of the bullpen and giving him one of those two spots, leaving Dave Bush, Chris Capuano, Claudio Vargas and Top Prospect Manny Parra to fight for the final one. Parra will be a rotation mainstay in the future but is probably not ready yet, expect Capuano or Bush to end up with the job. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Scott Cassidy (P), Abraham Nunez (3B), Laynce Nix (OF)
NEW YORK METS Location: Port St. Lucie, FL Stadium: Tradition Field Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 16 First Game: Feb. 27, at Tigers Position Battles: The addition of Johan Santana obviously alleviated a lot of the concern around Mets camp, it also eliminated any possibility of a rotation battle this Spring. Right now the five starters are set, as is the lineup. The only spot open to any sort of competition would be Right Field where the Mets could use a right-handed hitter to platoon with Ryan Church, as well as to provide insurance for when Moises Alou goes down. However no one on the current roster fits that description so they will have to fill that need via trade or free agency. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Juan Padilla (P), Ricardo Rincon (P), Fernando Tatis (3B), Jose Valentin (2B)
PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES Location: Clearwater, FL Stadium: Bright House Networks Field Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 13 First Game: Feb. 27, vs. Reds Position Battles: The Phillies don't really have any position battles heading into camp. They seem intent on using a platoon of Geoff Jenkins and Jayson Werth in Right Field and Adam Eaton seems healthy enough to lock down the fifth starter's job. If Eaton falters, the Durbins, J.D. and Chad, will compete to take his spot. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Vic Darensbourg (P), Gary Knotts (P)
PITTSBURGH PIRATES Location: Bradenton, FL Stadium: McKechnie Field Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 14 First Game: Feb. 28, at Phillies Position Battles: The Pirates haven't changed much since last season and thus don't have many things to work out this Spring. The only real battle will be in Center Field where Nate McLouth will compete for the job with prospects Nyjer Morgan and Andrew McCutchen. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: T.J. Beam (P), Adam Bernero (P), Sean Burnett (P), Hector Carrasco (P), Elmer Dessens (P), Casey Fossum (P), Jaret Wright (P), Raul Chavez (C), Jose Macias (2B), Doug Mientkiewicz (1B), Luis Rivas (2B), Jorge Velandia (2B),
ST. LOUIS CARDINALS Location: Jupiter, FL Stadium: Roger Dean Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 14 First Game: Feb. 28, vs. Mets Position Battles: Let's face it, the Cardinals are a mess. They have a lot to work out during camp and to be honest, they don't really have many good options. Second Base will be a competition between Adam Kennedy, Aaron Miles and D'Angelo Jimenez, while Cesar Izturis and Brendan Ryan will battle for the job at short. Regardless of who wins those battles, it's clear that the Cardinals fans will be the losers. Rick Ankiel and Chris Duncan are assured of outfield spots, but which spots depend on who the third outfielder is. If Top Prospect Colby Ramus stays with the big club when camp breaks he will man Center while Duncan and Ankiel play left and right respectively. If Rasmus is not ready for a the Majors come Opening Day, Ankiel will play Center, Duncan will play one of the corners and the other corner will be left to either Skip Schumaker, Ryan Ludwick or Brian Barton. Equally as confusing is the rotation where only Adam Wainwright seems to have locked up a job. Braden Looper and Joel Pineiro are the likely third and fourth starters, leaving Anthony Reyes, Matt Clement, Todd Wellemeyer and Brad Thompson to compete for the other two slots. Mark Mulder will also factor in when he returns in May and Chris Carpenter is expected back sometime around the All-Star Break. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Dewon Brazelton (P), Cliff Politte (P), John Wasdin (P), D'Angelo Jimenez (2B), Josh Phelps (1B), Juan Gonzalez (OF) (yes, AMAZINGLY, it is THAT Juan Gonzalez)
(Edit: Thanks to reader Rob for pointing out that I somehow omitted the Giants, don't have any idea how that happened, but they have now been added below)
SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS Location: Scottsdale, AZ Stadium: Scottsdale Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 13 First Game: Feb. 28, vs. Cubs Position Battles: The Giants don't really have much of a lineup at all, and because of that they have a lot of work do this Spring. Although on the other hand, they really don't have that many choices, so maybe it won't be that difficult. The only infield position that is set is shortstop, the other three positions will be filled by three players from the group of Dan Ortmeier, Ray Durham, Rich Aurilia and Kevin Frandsen. None of whom are particularly appealing options. The Giants may make a trade during camp for a third basemen and the White Sox Joe Crede makes the most sense for both teams. The outfield is pretty set thanks to the signing of Aaron Rowand, though Rajai Davis and Nate Schierholtz could push Dave Roberts for playing time in Left. The only other position battle to watch could be for the fifth starters job, though Kevin Correia seems to have a strong hold on that job right now. If Jonathan Sanchez has a very strong Spring he could win the job, but it seems more likely at this point that he will return to the bullpen. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Victor Santos (P), Scott Williamson (P), Keiichi Yabu (P)
SAN DIEGO PADRES Location: Peoria, AZ Stadium: Peoria Sports Complex Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 14 First Game: Feb. 28, at Mariners Position Battles: The big question in Padres camp will be whether or not Top Prospect Chase Headley can handle Left Field. Headley has been a Third Basemen in the minors but is currently blocked there in the Majors by Kevin Kouzmanoff. Headley has been working out this winter as an outfielder and will come to Spring Training to compete with Scott Hairston for the job in left. The only other position battle was going to be at Second Base, but the team eliminated the need for that when they signed Tadahito Iguchi, buying prospect Matt Antonelli some more time in the minors. On the pitching front the only thing to sort out will be who will fill the fifth starter's role until Mark Prior is able to return in late May. The candidates for the job in the meantime include Justin Germano, Shawn Estes, Glendon Rusch, Wilfredo Ledezma and one of last season's top busts, Clay Hensley. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Shawn Estes (P), Glendon Rusch (P), Robert Fick (1B), Jeff DaVanon (OF), Jody Gerut (OF)
WASHINGTON NATIONALS Location: Viera, FL Stadium: Space Coast Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 16 First Game: Feb. 27, at Marlins Position Battles: There are a couple of positional battles here heading into camp, starting with catcher, where the Nats managed to take on both of the guys that the Mets let go this winter. Paul LoDuca was signed to be the starter, but then went down with an injury. In reaction, Johnny Estrada was signed to take his place while he is out. LoDuca should be back by April and then the two of them will compete for playing time. Amazingly Christian Guzman is again slated to start the season as the everyday shortstop, but it shouldn't be long before the Nationals once again realize that Felipe Lopez is the better option. The other positional battle will be at first base where a returning Nick Johnson will compete with one of last year's biggest comeback stories, Dmitri Young. If Johnson is healthy it will be hard to picture him riding the pine, though it's highly unlikely that Young will not be a starter when the season begins. If Johnson is ready to reassume his first base role, look for Young to move to the outfield and bump Wily Mo Pena out of a job. As for the rotation, it is much more solidified than it was a year ago, and dare I say, it even has some potential for 2008. The first three spots are locked in and the final two spots are likely to go to Matt Chico and John Lannan. However, if either of them falter this Spring, the group of Tyler Clippard, Ross Detwiler, Joel Hanrahan and Tim Redding will be competing for their spot. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Mike Bacsik (P), Rob Bell (P), Eude Brito (P), Ray King (P), Michael O'Connor (P), Jason Stanford (P), Humberto Cota (C), Chad Moeller (C), Pete Orr (2B), Jason Dubois (OF), Alex Escobar (OF)
Now onto the A.L.
BATTING THIRD .
AMERICAN LEAGUE SPRING TRAINING PREVIEW
BALTIMORE ORIOLES Location: Ft. Lauderdale, FL Stadium: Ft. Lauderdale Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 13 First Game: Feb. 28, vs. Marlins Position Battles: On the heels of the Erik Bedard trade, things are actually a lot clearer in Oriole land, at least in terms of the lineup. In that trade the O's finally acquired the Center Fielder they have been looking for in Top Prospect Adam Jones. If for some reason the Orioles want Jones to open the season in Triple-A, Tike Redman will battle Jay Payton for the Center Field opening. The downside of the Bedard trade entering camp is that it makes the Starting Pitching situation even more unsettled. The top three rotation spots seem secure but an open competition will be held to fill out the staff. The contenders for those last two spots are Troy Patton, Matt Albers, Garrett Olson, Radhames Liz and newly signed Steve Trachsel. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Ryan Bukvich (P), Lance Cormier (P), Steve Trachsel (P), Esteban Yan (P), Luis Terrero (OF)
BOSTON RED SOX Location: Ft. Myers, FL Stadium: City of Palms Park Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 15 First Game: Feb. 29, at Twins Position Battles: A few days ago it looked like the big story heading into Sox camp would be who would win the fifth starter's job, Top Prospect Jon Lester or Super Prospect Clay Buchholz. However, the news that Curt Schilling is going to miss at least half, if not all of the season, eliminates a lot of that drama. Barring some unforeseen occurrence, both Buchholz and Lester will now open the season in the rotation. That leaves only one battle entering Spring Training, Center Field. Jacoby Ellsbury is the likely starter, but it's possible that the team could hand the job back to last year's starter. Coco Crisp. It's more likely that Crisp will be dealt before the start of the season, leaving Center Field all to Jacoby. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Dan Kolb (P), Michael Tejera (P), Kevin Cash (C), Keith Ginter (2B), Joe Thurston (2B), Bobby Kielty (OF)
CHICAGO WHITE SOX Location: Tucson, AZ Stadium: Tucson Electric Park Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 15 First Game: Feb. 27, vs. Rockies Position Battles: The rotation is all but set for the White Sox, but they have a few lineup issues to resolve this Spring. One of them is in the outfield, where Nick Swisher and Jermaine Dye are already guaranteed spots. The last spot will go to either Jerry Owens or Carlos Quentin, the former Top Prospect acquired from the Diamondbacks. If Owens wins the job, he will start in Center and Swisher will start in Left. If Quentin wins the job, he will be placed in Left and Swisher will man Center. Second Base is probably going to belong to Danny Richar, but Juan Uribe is also a candidate now that he has lost his shortstop job to Orlando Cabrera. The last issue the White Sox have is Third Base, which isn't a position battle so much as a what to do with situation. Josh Fields is secure as the starter, but that leaves the question of what to do with Joe Crede if he proves healthy? If Crede is healthy he is way too good to ride the bench, so look for the Sox to either move him to the outfield or trade him to a team for whom he will start. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: D.J. Carrasco (P), Brad Eldred (1B), Jeff Liefer (1B)
CLEVELAND INDIANS Location: Winter Haven, FL Stadium: Chain of Lakes Park Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 15 First Game: Feb. 28, vs. Astros Position Battles: As I said last week, the Indians are the one team that I can't believe wouldn't be better served dipping into the free agent market and signing a guy like Shawn Green or Shannon Stewart. They are set to enter the Spring and the season with a Left Field platoon of Jason Michaels and David Dellucci, which is hard to get excited about. The other option would be giving Josh Barfield another shot at Second Base, moving Asdrubal Cabrera to shortstop, Jhonny Peralta to Third Base and Casey Blake to Left Field, which would probably make them a better team, at least offensively. The rotation is set in spots one through four, but the final spot will be up for grabs in camp. Aaron Laffey is the early favorite, but Cliff Lee, Adam Miller and Jeremy Sowers all will be given a shot as well. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Rick Bauer (P), Brendan Donnelly (P), Scott Elarton (P), Matt Ginter (P), Jorge Julio (P)
DETROIT TIGERS Location: Lakeland, FL Stadium: Joker Marchant Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 14 First Game: Feb. 27, vs. Mets Position Battles: The Tigers are probably the most set team heading into spring training and really have no position battles to speak of at this time. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Aquilino Lopez (P), Matt Mantei (P), Timo Perez (OF)
KANSAS CITY ROYALS Location: Surprise, AZ Stadium: Surprise Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 13 First Game: Feb. 27, at Rangers Position Battles: A year ago, and for many years prior to that, the Royals went into Spring Training needing to figure out the majority of both their lineup and rotation. Well this year is very different as their lineup is pretty much set. The only thing that could change is Ryan Shealy could regain his First Base job from Ross Gload if he has an impressive Spring. As for the rotation, the top three spots are set and Brett Tomko is pretty much been assured of the fourth spot after receiving that ludicrous five-million dollar deal. That leaves one open spot and at least six starters competing for it. Among those that will compete are Jorge De La Rosa, Kyle Davies, Mike Maroth, Luke Hudson, Hideo Nomo (yes, believe it or not, they are serious) and Top Prospect Luke Hochevar. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Brandon Duckworth (P), Brian Lawrence (P), Mike Maroth (P), Hideo Nomo (P), Chin-hui Tsao (P), Angel Berroa (SS), Damon Hollins (OF)
LOS ANGELES ANGELS Location: Tempe, AZ Stadium: Tempe Diablo Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 14 First Game: Feb. 28, vs. Rangers Position Battles: There are only two positions up for grabs entering Angels camp and they are both only two-way battles. Erick Aybar and Maicier Izturis will compete for the starting shortstop job and Ervin Santana and Joe Saunders will compete for the final rotation slot. As of now, Aybar and Saunders are the front-runners. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Dee Brown (OF), Chad Hermansen (OF)
MINNESOTA TWINS Location: Ft. Myers, FL Stadium: Hammond Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 17 First Game: Feb. 28, at Reds Position Battles: The Twins overhauled much of their lineup this winter and have already settled on most of their starters in the process. The only position that could be open is Center Field for which Carlos Gomez, Jason Pridie and Craig Monroe are expected to compete. Gomez is the early favorite since he was the biggest prize landed in the Johan deal. The other result of the Johan deal is that there is now an open spot in the rotation and a competition will be held among Glen Perkins, Nick Blackburn, Phil Humber and Brian Duensing to land it. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Casey Daigle (P), Zach Day (P), Randy Keisler (P), Jon Knott (OF)
NEW YORK YANKEES Location: Tampa, FL Stadium: Legends Field Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 14 First Game: March 1, at Phillies Position Battles: The Yankees are overstocked at a couple of positions and understocked at another. Right now they seemingly have too many bats to fit into the lineup, especially when you consider that they don't really want any of them playing first base. Johnny Damon, Hideki Matsui and Melky Cabrera will all compete for time in two spots in the outfield, with the odd man out seeing action at Designated Hitter as well. The problem is that Jason Giambi is also in the mix at DH since the team is not anxious to return him to first base. That leaves the First Base job open as well and the competition for that job will include Morgan Ensberg, Shelley Duncan and Wilson Betemit. The rotation is just as tricky with six legitimate starters in tow. The Yanks are set at the top of the rotation with Pettitte and Wang, but also clearly want to make their three young starters, Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy part of the rotation sooner rather than later. The problem is that they still have Mike Mussina under contract and it will be all but impossible to move the veteran to the bullpen. The most likely scenario is some form a six-man rotation that enables all of their young arms to get starts, but also allows them to limit their workloads for the season, which is one of their main goals going in. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Darrell Rasner (P), Scott Strickland (P), Billy Traber (P), Morgan Ensberg (1B), Cody Ransom (SS), Chris Woodward (2B), Jason Lane (OF)
OAKLAND ATHLETICS Location: Phoenix, AZ Stadium: Municipal Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 13 First Game: Feb. 28, at Brewers Position Battles: The A's have a bit of a logjam heading into Spring Training at DH and the Outfield. The good news though is that it will be easy to sort out. None of the guys involved are big names or big contract players, and all of them are interchangeable positionally, for the most part. So you just slot the best performing players into the open slots. This competition will include two outfield spots and the DH and the players vying for the jobs are Jack Cust, Emil Brown, Carlos Gonzalez, Chris Denorfia, Mike Sweeney and Dan Johnson. The only caveats are that Sweeney and Johnson can only be the DH, and Jack Cust can't play Center Field. As for the rotation, it depends heavily on health issues. Joe Blanton is set as the number one starter and Rich Harden and Chad Gaudin will be locked in if they are healthy. Justin Duchscherer is being given a chance to start and will likely take the fourth slot. That leaves six pitchers, Lenny DiNardo, Gio Gonzalez, Dana Eveland, Dan Meyer, Dallas Braden and Kirk Saarloos, battling for anywhere from one to three spots, depending on when Harden and Gaudin will be ready to begin the season. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Kirk Saarloos (P), Mike Sweeney (DH), Todd Linden (OF)
SEATTLE MARINERS Location: Peoria, AZ Stadium: Peoria Sports Complex Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 13 First Game: Feb. 28, vs. Padres Position Battles: With the addition of Erik Bedard, the need for a competition for the fifth starter's job has now been eliminated. The rotation is set and Brandon Morrow will remain in the bullpen .for now. The only position open for battle this Spring will be Right Field where Brad Wilkerson is the heavy favorite to replace the recently traded Adam Jones. If Wilkerson struggles, Wladimir Balentien and Jeremy Reed will be the other options. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Chris Reitsma (P), Arthur Rhodes (P), Jake Woods (P)
TAMPA BAY RAYS Location: St. Petersberg, FL Stadium: Progress Energy Park Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 14 First Game: Feb. 29, at Reds Position Battles: With the departure of Delmon Young and Elijah Dukes, you would think the outfield situation would finally be clearing up in Tampa Bay, however that is hardly the case. As of now there are three outfielders on the roster competing for two spots (RF and DH). The players in question are Rocco Baldelli, Cliff Floyd and Johnny Gomes and the competition depends heavily on the health of Baldelli and Floyd, two very big question marks. The most likely scenario will see all three of them getting time throughout the season in some sort of rotation. The rotation is the only other issue heading into camp, but it is a much lesser issue than it has ever been before. For the first time in their 10-year history, the Rays have a fairly credible rotation. The last two spots aren't locked in, but Edwin Jackson and Andy Sonnanstine are the early favorites. They will pushed hard this Spring by the Rays large group of Top Prospect pitchers which includes Jeff Niemann, Mitch Talbot, David Price, Jacob McGee and Wade Davis. Jason Hammel and J.P. Howell could also be included if there is any sort of competition. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Mike DiFelice (C), Josh Paul (C), Eric Hinske (3B), John Rodriguez (OF)
TEXAS RANGERS Location: Surprise, AZ Stadium: Surprise Stadium Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 14 First Game: Feb. 27, vs. Royals Position Battles: The Rangers are one of the few teams entering Spring Training with a Closer controversy. Heading into camp, C.J. Wilson is the favorite, but Joaquin Benoit and Eddie Guardado will both also get a look. Other than that things are pretty set. Eric Hurley will get a look for the rotation but will most likely end up in Triple-A. The lineup is also pretty set, Jason Botts will push hard for a job, whether it be at First Base, DH or in the outfield, but right now he is on the outside looking in. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Bruce Chen, Willie Eyre, Franklyn German, Mike Wood, Jamey Wright, Ramon Vazquez, Jerry Hairston, Matt Kata, Sammy Sosa
TORONTO BLUE JAYS Location: Dunedin, FL Stadium: Knology Park Pitchers and Catchers Report: Feb. 15 First Game: Feb. 28, at Tigers Position Battles: There are only two real competitions heading into Spring Training for the Jays, but they both may prove to be wide open races. The Left Field job is up for grabs with Matt Stairs, Adam Lind and Reed Johnson competing for it. Meanwhile, Gustavo Chacin, Jesse Litsch and Casey Janssen will compete for the fifth spot in the rotation. Litsch has to be considered the early favorite there, while the LF situation is likely to end in a platoon situation. Notable Non-Roster Invitees: Shawn Camp (P), Lance Carter (P), Kane Davis (P), John Parrish (P), Sal Fasano (C)
That will do it for the Spring Training Preview, boy there is a lot of a great stuff to look for over the next month or so, so keep your eye out. If you feel I missed any position battles or anything important, please let me know, get those e-mails in ASAP and I will be happy to address your concern. Now let's move on .
CLEANING UP
Tying in with the Spring Training theme, the major topic of which is position battles, the major aspect of which is often Top Prospects, I thought this week would take a look at just who the Top Prospects for the 2008 season are. Keep in mind, this is not a list of the Top Prospects in baseball, rather a list of the guys that will be most likely to make an impact in 2008. Let's get straight to the list .
"The 10 Greatest" Prospects For 2008
10) Franklin Morales (SP, Colorado Rockies)
09) Cameron Maybin (CF, Florida Marlins)
08) Colby Rasmus (CF, St. Louis Cardinals)
07) Homer Bailey (SP, Cincinnati Reds)
06) Clayton Kershaw (SP, Los Angeles Dodgers)
05) Andy LaRoche (3B, Los Angeles Dodgers)
04) Clay Buchholz (SP, Boston Red Sox)
03) Joba Chamberlain (SP, New York Yankees)
02) Evan Longoria (3B, Tampa Bay Rays)
01) Jay Bruce (CF, Cincinnati Reds)
That will do it for this week, hope you enjoyed it. I will be back next week as we continue to preview the 2008 Major League season, and now that spring training has arrived, we can really get into the fun part of the preview. Next week we rank the lineups for all 30 major league teams and analyze them in every aspect you can imagine. Don't miss it and in the meantime .
