During spring training, all 30 MLB teams are in the process of determining their 25-man Opening Day rosters. It's an opportunity for each player to prove to his club that he is worthy of one of those spots and capable of making a meaningful contribution throughout the season.

Many teams have just one or two roster spots to be decided. Others, like the Houston Astros, are holding open auditions for starting positions in addition to roster spots.

It's a race to the finish as fringe players do all they can to lock down one of those coveted slots by late March.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Ian Kennedy
2. RHP Trevor Cahill
3. RHP Brandon McCarthy
4. LHP Wade Miley
5. RHP Patrick Corbin

With the top four spots locked down, the competition for the fifth starter promises to be the most exciting battle for Arizona. Corbin, Tyler Skaggs and Randall Delgado will all be competing fiercely this spring for the coveted role.

Skaggs is the youngest of the three, but he struggled in six major league starts late last season. Delgado still lacks an effective third pitch in his repertoire and also needs to show better command of the strike zone. Corbin put up 17 starts last season for the Diamondbacks; he likely has the upper hand at this point.

Starting Lineup 

C: Miguel Montero
1B: Paul Goldschmidt
2B: Aaron Hill
3B: Martin Prado
SS: Cliff Pennington
LF: Jason Kubel
CF: Gerardo Parra
RF: Cody Ross

The biggest question here is in center field. Parra, Adam Eaton and A.J. Pollock are all viable candidates; manager Kirk Gibson could use matchups to determine his best outfield combination. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP J.J. Putz
Relief: RHP Heath Bell
Relief: RHP David Hernandez
Relief: LHP Tony Sipp
Relief: RHP Brad Ziegler
Relief: LHP Matt Reynolds
Relief: RHP Randall Delgado

It's never a bad thing to have depth in the starting rotation. Delgado will work in long relief out of the bullpen for that very reason. 

Bench

C Will Nieves
3B Eric Chavez
OF Eric Hinske
OF Adam Eaton
IF John McDonald

The final bench spot could come down to Eaton and promising outfielder A.J. Pollock. The Diamondbacks more than likely want Pollock to continue getting everyday at-bats at the Triple-A level until something opens up at the major league level.

Meanwhile, Didi Gregorius, the shortstop prospect acquired in the offseason Trevor Bauer trade, suffered a mild UCL strain of his right elbow and likely won't be ready for Opening Day.

Utility infielder Willie Bloomquist is the odd man out and could be dealt for minor league depth before the end of spring training.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Tim Hudson
2. LHP Paul Maholm
3. RHP Kris Medlen
4. LHP Mike Minor
5. RHP Julio Teheran

Unless Teheran completely spits the bit in Grapefruit League games, this is the rotation that will head north in April. Brandon Beachy, the National League's ERA leader last year before suffering a torn UCL, is on track for a midseason return following Tommy John surgery.  

Starting Lineup

C: Gerald Laird
1B: Freddie Freeman
2B: Dan Uggla
3B: Chris Johnson
SS: Andrelton Simmons
LF: Justin Upton
CF: B.J. Upton
RF: Jason Heyward

Laird will assume the duties behind the plate until Brian McCann is fully recovered from offseason shoulder surgery. Johnson will likely platoon with Juan Francisco, giving manager Fredi Gonzalez a solid righty-lefty combination. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Craig Kimbrel
Relief: LHP Jonny Venters
Relief: LHP Eric O'Flaherty
Relief: RHP Jordan Walden
Relief: LHP Luis Avilan
Relief: RHP Cory Gearrin
Relief: RHP Cristhian Martinez

Without question, the Braves have one of the deepest bullpens in the National League. Walden will reinforce the 'pen if he's able to bounce back from a disappointing 2012 season with the Los Angeles Angels that was interrupted by biceps and shoulder injuries.  

Bench

C Matt Pagnozzi
SS Tyler Pastornicky
3B Juan Francisco
OF Reed Johnson
OF Jordan Schafer

Pagnozzi's time with the big club is likely temporary until McCann is fully healed. Francisco will get plenty of playing time platooning with Johnson at third.

The big question is Pastornicky. Manager Fredi Gonzalez expressed his disappointment with Pastornicky's late arrival to camp last week. Paul Janish underwent offseason shoulder surgery, so Pastornicky could find himself bumped once Janish is ready.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Jason Hammel
2. LHP Wei-Yin Chen
3. RHP Chris Tillman
4. RHP Miguel Gonzalez
5. RHP Jair Jurrjens

Without question, the biggest battle in spring training will be the competition for the No. 5 starter. Jurrjens was signed to a minor league deal, and general manager Dan Duquette is hoping that he can regain his form, saying (via Brittany Ghiroli, MLB.com):

The kid's a winning pitcher, and we're going to see if we can get him back to the form that helped him win over 50 games. We'll see if we can help him regain the form that made him a good pitcher. He's a sinkerballer, plus he has a good changeup. He's young, he's 27, so there's a chance he could learn how to pitch effectively and manage the situation with his right knee.

Jurrjens will face stiff competition from a group that includes Steve Johnson, Brian Matusz, Jake Arrieta, Zach Britton, Tommy Hunter and Rule 5 draft pick T.J. McFarland.

Starting Lineup 

C: Matt Wieters
1B: Chris Davis
2B: Brian Roberts
3B: Manny Machado
SS: J.J. Hardy
LF: Nate McLouth
CF: Adam Jones
RF: Nick Markakis
DH: Wilson Betemit

A healthy Roberts will make a huge difference in the lineup, but that's certainly not a given considering his injury woes of the past three seasons.

McLouth will likely start the season getting at-bats against right-handed pitching. Nolan Reimold will also get looks in left field and at designated hitter as he recovers from neck surgery.

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Jim Johnson
Relief: RHP Pedro Strop
Relief: RHP Darren O’Day
Relief: LHP Troy Patton
Relief: RHP Luis Ayala
Relief: RHP Brian Matusz
Relief: RHP Tommy Hunter

Matusz showed a level of comfort in the bullpen last year. His 1.35 ERA in 18 relief appearances down the stretch was a refreshing change.

Hunter gives manager Buck Showalter rotation depth as well.    

Bench

C Taylor Teagarden
3B Danny Valencia
2B Alexi Casilla
OF Nolan Reimold

Valencia could see time at designated hitter with a solid spring after a trying 2012 season for the Minnesota Twins and Boston Red Sox. Casilla will battle with Ryan Flaherty for a backup role to Roberts. Both could have an impact this season if Roberts’ recent injury history comes into play again in 2013.

Starting Rotation

1. LHP Jon Lester
2. RHP Clay Buchholz
3. RHP Ryan Dempster
4. LHP Felix Doubront
5. RHP John Lackey

There is every indication that Lackey is ready to bounce back after missing the entire 2012 season due to Tommy John surgery. In an interview with Peter Abraham of The Boston Globe, Lackey said that his elbow hindered him for much longer than many people realized.

“I had to stop throwing in the bullpen [between starts] because of the pain,” Lackey said. “I’ve had something wrong with my elbow for three years now.”

If that pain is indeed gone and Lackey returns to the form that produced a league-leading 3.01 ERA for the Los Angeles Angels in 2007, the Sox rotation will benefit mightily.

Starting Lineup 

C: Jarrod Saltalamacchia
1B: Mike Napoli
2B: Dustin Pedroia
3B: Will Middlebrooks
SS: Stephen Drew
LF: Jonny Gomes
CF: Jacoby Ellsbury
RF: Shane Victorino
DH: David Ortiz

A healthy Ortiz will make a huge difference in the lineup, but his strained Achilles' heel kept him out of the lineup for much of the second half last season, so that's not a guarantee.

Gomes and Napoli bring much-needed right-handed power, and Gomes could get looks against right-handed pitching as well with Daniel Nava and Ryan Sweeney not exactly stellar options. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Joel Hanrahan
Relief: RHP Andrew Bailey
Relief: RHP Koji Uehara
Relief: LHP Andrew Miller
Relief: LHP Craig Breslow
Relief: RHP Junichi Tazawa
Relief: RHP Alfredo Aceves

Hanrahan, Bailey and Uehara give the Red Sox a strong back end. Tazawa broke through last season with a tremendous effort, posting a 1.43 ERA in 37 appearances.

The wild card for the bullpen is Daniel Bard. His failed transition as a starter last year led to a miserable season. New manager John Farrell is hoping that Bard can regain the form that saw him post a 2.62 ERA and 9.1 K/9 rate in 2010 and 2011. 

Bench

C David Ross
IF Pedro Ciriaco
1B Lyle Overbay
OF Daniel Nava

Nava represents a platoon option in left field unless general manager Ben Cherington somehow pulls off a deal to acquire a more attractive left-handed hitter.

Overbay brings solid defense but an increasingly limited bat, and Ciriaco provides protection for the left side of the infield. Jose Iglesias simply wouldn’t be best served by sitting on the bench at this point.  

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Matt Garza
2. RHP Jeff Samardzija
3. RHP Edwin Jackson
4. RHP Scott Feldman
5. RHP Carlos Villanueva

The top four rotation spots appear to be set. Villanueva and Travis Wood will battle for the No. 5 role until Scott Baker is fully healthy, which could be as early as mid-to-late April.

Starting Lineup 

C: Wellington Castillo
1B: Anthony Rizzo
2B: Darwin Barney
3B: Ian Stewart
SS: Starlin Castro
LF: Alfonso Soriano
CF: David DeJesus
RF: Nate Schierholtz  

The Cubs will benefit from having Rizzo in the lineup for a full season. Newcomer Scott Hairston will provide punch from the right side in a platoon, with Schierholtz in right field as well.

Stewart will be given a shot to prove he can produce after undergoing wrist surgery last year. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Carlos Marmol
Relief: RHP Kyuji Fujikawa
Relief: RHP Shawn Camp
Relief: LHP James Russell
Relief: RHP Michael Bowden
Relief: LHP Travis Wood
Relief: RHP Hector Rondon

Marmol could easily be displaced at some point by Fujikawa, especially with Marmol in the final year of a contract that pays him $9.8 million this season. Rondon could be a sleeper after being plucked from the Cleveland Indians in the Rule 5 draft. 

Bench

C Dioner Navarro
3B Luis Valbuena
INF Brent Lillibridge
OF Scott Hairston
OF Dave Sappelt

Lillibridge provides manager Dale Sveum with plenty of versatility, giving him the inside edge for a coveted bench spot.

Starting Rotation

1. LHP Chris Sale
2. RHP Jake Peavy
3. LHP John Danks
4. RHP Gavin Floyd
5. LHP Jose Quintana

About the only question concerning the White Sox rotation is who will emerge as the Opening Day starter. Peavy and Sale are both deserving of the honor.

Quintana’s impressive rookie season assures him a spot, and Dylan Axelrod is available for spot starts as well.

Starting Lineup 

C: Tyler Flowers
1B: Paul Konerko
2B: Gordon Beckham
3B: Jeff Keppinger
SS: Alexei Ramirez
LF: Dayan Viciedo
CF: Alejandro De Aza
RF: Alex Rios
DH: Adam Dunn  

Rios and Dunn had huge bounce-back seasons for the White Sox in 2012 and will again be expected to provide punch. Keppinger solidifies the No. 2 spot in the order, and Flowers hopes to catch on following the departure of A.J. Pierzynski. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Addison Reed
Relief: LHP Matt Thornton
Relief: RHP Jesse Crain
Relief: RHP Nate Jones
Relief: RHP Matt Lindstrom
Relief: LHP Donnie Veal
Relief: RHP Dylan Axelrod

The White Sox return with a bullpen largely intact. While lacking a true setup man, manager Robin Ventura has the option of using veterans Thornton, Crane, Jones and Lindstrom at any point in the seventh and eighth innings. 

Bench

C Hector Gimenez
IF Angel Sanchez
IF Brent Morel
OF DeWayne Wise

The 25th man on the roster could come down to a choice between Rule 5 draft pick Sanchez and outfielder Jordan Danks. Lars Anderson is a possibility as well.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Johnny Cueto
2. RHP Mat Latos
3. RHP Bronson Arroyo
4. RHP Homer Bailey
5. LHP Aroldis Chapman

Chapman will transition to the starting rotation this season—a plan that was hatched last year. However, Chapman moved back to bullpen after early-season injuries to Ryan Madson and Bill Bray.

Mike Leake will move to the bullpen and be available for manager Dusty Baker should any of the starting five encounter any issues.

Starting Lineup

C: Ryan Hanigan
1B: Joey Votto
2B: Brandon Phillips
3B: Todd Frazier
SS: Zack Cozart
LF: Ryan Ludwick
CF: Shin-Soo Choo
RF: Jay Bruce

Choo vastly improves the Reds lineup at the top of the order. He’ll be challenged defensively, however, as he transitions to center field. Frazier will try to build off a sensational rookie season with a permanent spot in the lineup at third base. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Jonathan Broxton
Relief: LHP Sean Marshall
Relief: RHP Jose Arredondo
Relief: RHP Logan Ondrusek
Relief: RHP Alfredo Simon
Relief: RHP Sam LeCure
Relief: RHP Mike Leake

The Reds return with the National League’s leading bullpen minus Chapman. Broxton will take the reins as closer after a resurgent year with the Kansas City Royals and Reds.

Newcomer Manny Parra will attempt to make the team as a left-handed specialist, battling with LeCure for the final bullpen slot. 

Bench

C Devin Mesoraco
3B Jack Hannahan
IF Jason Donald
OF Chris Heisey
OF Xavier Paul

Paul was exceptional in a limited role with the Reds last season, providing a .314/.379/.465 line in 55 games, mostly as a pinch-hitter. The Reds are still waiting for 24-year-old Mesoraco to break out offensively, as he has hit just .205 thus far in parts of two seasons.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Justin Masterson
2. RHP Ubaldo Jimenez
3. RHP Brett Myers
4. RHP Zach McAllister
5. RHP Trevor Bauer

The battle for the fifth and final rotation spot will be fierce. Bauer will battle with Carlos Carrasco, Scott Kazmir, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Corey Kluber and David Huff.

The biggest issue is the lack of a left-hander in the rotation, unless Kazmir or Huff break through.

Starting Lineup

C: Carlos Santana
1B: Mark Reynolds
2B: Jason Kipnis
3B: Lonnie Chisenhall
SS: Asdrubal Cabrera
LF: Michael Brantley
CF: Michael Bourn
RF: Nick Swisher
DH: Mike Aviles

The late addition of Bourn gives new manager Terry Francona all kinds of lineup options. He can insert Drew Stubbs in right field, moving Swisher to first base and starting Reynolds at DH. He can use Santana at first with Lou Marson catching—again, with Reynolds at DH.

Without question, the extra lineup flexibility is a plus. For that reason, I'd expect my projection to change by the time Opening Day rolls around.

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Chris Perez
Relief: RHP Vinnie Pestano
Relief: RHP Joe Smith
Relief: RHP Matt Albers
Relief: LHP Nick Hagadone
Relief: LHP David Huff
Relief: RHP Matt Capps

The Indians' bullpen had the second-worst ERA in the American League last season, but much of that stems from the fact that it was simply overused.

The bullpen is a strength for the team overall, and if the starting rotation can provide more innings this season, that strength will be realized once again. 

Bench

C Lou Marson
1B Jason Giambi
OF Drew Stubbs
UTIL Ryan Raburn

Giambi and Raburn provide veteran leadership off the bench. Raburn’s ability to play multiple positions in the infield and outfield could well be in his favor as Francona fills out his final roster.

Starting Rotation

1. LHP Jorge De La Rosa
2. RHP Jhoulys Chacin
3. RHP Juan Nicasio
4. LHP Drew Pomeranz
5. LHP Jeff Francis

After posting the worst ERA in the majors by far last season, the Rockies will return to a more conventional five-man rotation. The health of De La Rosa, Nicasio and Chacin will hold the key to improvement in 2013. 

Starting Lineup

C: Wilin Rosario
1B: Todd Helton
2B: Josh Rutledge
3B: Chris Nelson
SS: Troy Tulowitzki
LF: Carlos Gonzalez
CF: Dexter Fowler
RF: Michael Cuddyer

The Rockies offense is absolutely its strength. However, health is the biggest key. Gonzalez suffered through a miserable second half with Helton, Tulowitzki and Cuddyer out for extended periods of time.

Rutledge moves to second base full-time after filling in capably for Tulowitzki last season. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Rafael Betancourt
Relief: RHP Wilton Lopez
Relief: RHP Matt Belisle
Relief: RHP Adam Ottavino
Relief: LHP Rex Brothers  
Relief: LHP Josh Outman
Relief: RHP Tyler Chatwood

Lopez was brought in to become the eventual closer after Betancourt’s contract expires at the end of the season. For now, he’ll provide a reliable setup arm. The final two slots will be an open audition; with a bevy of arms, first-year manager Walt Weiss will be challenged to fill the slots. 

Bench

C Ramon Hernandez
INF Jordan Pacheco
OF Tyler Colvin
IF D.J. LeMahieu
OF Eric Young, Jr.

Weiss has a solid bench to turn to. Young hit .316 last year in 98 games, LeMahieu hit .297 in 81 games, Colvin contributed a .290 average with 18 home runs in 136 games and Pacheco had a .309 average in 132 games.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Justin Verlander
2. RHP Max Scherzer
3. RHP Anibal Sanchez
4. RHP Doug Fister
5. RHP Rick Porcello

The biggest uncertainty in the rotation for the Detroit Tigers is Porcello. With persistent rumors that the Tigers are looking to unload him, Drew Smyly would then become the only southpaw in the starting five. 

Starting Lineup

C: Alex Avila
1B: Prince Fielder
2B: Omar Infante
3B: Miguel Cabrera
SS: Jhonny Peralta
LF: Andy Dirks
CF: Austin Jackson
RF: Torii Hunter
DH: Victor Martinez

Dirks has the edge in left field after hitting .322 last season with 18 doubles and eight home runs in 88 games. Quintin Berry and Brennan Boesch will give Dirks a battle, and manager Jim Leyland could decide on a platoon, utilizing Berry’s terrific speed (21 thefts in 94 games). 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Al Alburquerque
Relief: RHP Joaquin Benoit
Relief: RHP Octavio Dotel
Relief: LHP Phil Coke
Relief: RHP Brayan Villarreal 
Relief: LHP Duane Below
Relief: LHP Drew Smyly

While prospect Bruce Rondon is the favorite to land the closer’s role left vacated by Jose Valverde, it’s my belief that Rondon will start the season in Triple-A, specifically to work on plate command.

Alburquerque is my surprise choice to close. With a 1.59 ERA and 13.5 K/9 rate in 49 appearances over parts of two seasons, Alburquerque is ready to make the jump.

Smyly serves in a long-relief role with the ability to spot start when necessary. 

Bench

C Brayan Pena
INF Ramon Santiago
OF Quintin Berry
OF Avisail Garcia

Brennan Boesch will get one more chance to prove his worth in a Tigers uniform. My guess is that he loses out to the talented Garcia.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Bud Norris
2. RHP Lucas Harrell
3. RHP Jordan Lyles
4. RHP Phil Humber
5. LHP Erik Bedard

Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow gave first-year manager Bo Porter no shortage of selections for his starting rotation. While Norris, Harrell and Lyles appear to be locks, Humber and Bedard will do battle with Alex White, John Ely, Brad Peacock, Jarred Cosart, Rudy Owens, Brett Oberholtzer and others for the final two slots. In the end, experience wins out.

Starting Lineup 

C: Jason Castro
1B: Brett Wallace
2B: Jose Altuve
3B: Matt Dominguez
SS: Marwin Gonzalez
LF: Chris Carter
CF: Justin Maxwell
RF: J.D. Martinez
DH: Carlos Pena

Competition will be fierce at the Astros camp this spring. Carter brings a solid bat to the mix, and while his path at first base might be blocked by Wallace, he is somewhat familiar with the outfield.

Fernando Martinez could be used in a platoon with J.D. Martinez in right field for the time being. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Jose Veras
Relief: LHP Wesley Wright
Relief: RHP Josh Fields
Relief: RHP Rhiner Cruz
Relief: LHP Xavier Cedeno  
Relief: RHP Sam Demel
Relief: RHP John Ely

The bullpen figures to be a complete crapshoot. It’s likely only Veras is a lock at this point.

Bench

C Carlos Corporan
SS Tyler Greene
OF Fernando Martinez
UTIL Jimmy Paredes

Rick Ankiel provides veteran experience, a live arm and a potent bat off the bench, but he might find himself squeezed out of a roster spot by Martinez, unless Porter decides on just one reserve infielder. Greene will compete with Gonzalez in Jed Lowrie's absence. Martinez could see time in both left and right.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP James Shields
2. RHP Jeremy Guthrie
3. RHP Ervin Santana
4. RHP Wade Davis
5. LHP Bruce Chen

The additions of Shields, Santana and Davis drastically improved a Royals rotation that suffered through injuries and mediocrity in 2012. Chen’s saving grace is that he’s the lone southpaw. 

Starting Lineup

C: Salvador Perez
1B: Eric Hosmer
2B: Chris Getz
3B: Mike Moustakas
SS: Alcides Escobar
LF: Alex Gordon
CF: Lorenzo Cain
RF: Jeff Francoeur
DH: Billy Butler

Francoeur, Hosmer and Moustakas will be largely expected to bounce back from disappointing 2012 seasons. Butler has become the best designated hitter in the American League, and Perez has the potential to deliver both offensively and defensively for many years. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Greg Holland
Relief: RHP Aaron Crow
Relief: RHP Kelvin Herrera
Relief: LHP Tim Collins
Relief: RHP Luis Mendoza  
Relief: RHP Luke Hochevar
Relief: LHP Francisley Bueno

Bueno has an excellent shot to be a situational lefty for manager Ned Yost. He posted a 1.56 ERA in 18 late-season appearances last year.

Both Chen and Mendoza are out of options, meaning both could become free agents if released. Mendoza offers Yost versatility at this point. 

Bench

C George Kottaras
2B Johnny Giavotella
IF Elliot Johnson
OF Jarrod Dyson

Kottaras will be useful backup behind Perez, and Dyson should be a lock for the fourth outfield slot. Giavotella will battle Getz for the full-time job at second once again.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Jered Weaver
2. LHP C.J. Wilson
3. RHP Tommy Hanson
4. LHP Jason Vargas
5. RHP Joe Blanton

No battles in this rotation for the Los Angeles Angels. Manager Mike Scioscia will have Jerome Williams and Garrett Richards as fall-back options as well. 

Starting Lineup

C: Chris Iannetta
1B: Albert Pujols
2B: Howie Kendrick
3B: Alberto Callaspo
SS: Erick Aybar
LF: Mike Trout
CF: Peter Bourjos
RF: Josh Hamilton
DH: Mark Trumbo

Without question a lineup that promises to be explosive, Scioscia also has flexibility. He can flip-flop Trumbo and Pujols to give Pujols a rest. He’ll also have Vernon Wells accessible on the bench, especially if Bourjos gets off to a slow start. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Ernesto Frieri
Relief: LHP Sean Burnett
Relief: RHP Kevin Jepsen
Relief: LHP Scott Downs
Relief: RHP Jerome Williams   
Relief: LHP Nick Maronde
Relief: RHP Bobby Cassevah

Maronde impressed with a 1.50 ERA in 12 appearances following his September call-up last year. He’ll temporarily gain a slot in the bullpen until Ryan Madson is cleared to go full-time.

Bench

C Hank Conger
INF Andrew Romine
UTIL Bill Hall
OF Vernon Wells

Romine will get a shot to replace utility infielder Maicer Izturis. Hall’s versatility is a plus with his ability to play six positions.

Starting Rotation

1. LHP Clayton Kershaw
2. RHP Zack Greinke
3. RHP Josh Beckett
4. LHP Hyun-Jin Ryu
5. RHP Aaron Harang

The battle for the fifth spot comes down to four experienced veterans—Harang, Chad Billingsley, Ted Lilly and Chris Capuano.

While it’s a major logjam, both Billingsley and Lilly have major question marks after they each suffered through serious injuries in 2012. For now, Harang has the upper hand, but Billingsley will be given every chance to show his elbow has completely healed. 

Starting Lineup

C: A.J. Ellis
1B: Adrian Gonzalez
2B: Mark Ellis
3B: Luis Cruz
SS: Hanley Ramirez
LF: Carl Crawford
CF: Matt Kemp
RF: Andre Ethier

Crawford’s status for Opening Day is still not a given, although he took part in live batting practice on Sunday (h/t Ken Gurnick, MLB.com). If Crawford returns to pre-Boston form, the Dodgers’ lineup becomes all that more scary.

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Brandon League
Relief: RHP Kenley Jansen
Relief: LHP J.P. Howell
Relief: RHP Javy Guerra
Relief: RHP Ronald Belisario   
Relief: RHP Matt Guerrier
Relief: LHP Chris Capuano

I’m guessing that Lilly and Billingsley start the season on the disabled list, giving them more time to get ready while also letting general manager Ned Colletti possibly orchestrate a deal. 

Bench

C Tim Federowicz 
INF Nick Punto
UTIL Skip Schumaker
3B Juan Uribe
OF Jerry Hairston, Jr.

Schumaker was a great pickup for the Dodgers, providing versatility and a veteran bat with plenty of postseason experience.

The big question is Dee Gordon. It’s entirely possible the Dodgers could try to deal Uribe or simply DFA him—he’s been an unmitigated disaster thus far with the team. If so, Gordon will remain with the major league club.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Ricky Nolasco
2. RHP Henderson Alvarez
3. LHP Wade LeBlanc
4. RHP Nathan Eovaldi
5. RHP Jacob Turner

The Marlins rotation is loaded with potential—"potential" being the operative word.

Nolasco becomes the de-facto ace following the departures of Josh Johnson, Mark Buehrle and Anibal Sanchez. He may not last the season considering the Marlins’ recent slew of salary-dumping deals. 

Starting Lineup

C: Rob Brantly
1B: Logan Morrison
2B: Donovan Solano
3B: Placido Polanco
SS: Adeiny Hechavarria
LF: Juan Pierre
CF: Justin Ruggiano
RF: Giancarlo Stanton

Morrison is still questionable for Opening Day after undergoing knee surgery last September. Greg Dobbs will likely get the bulk of time at first until he returns.

This is a lineup that doesn’t offer much in the way of protection for slugger Stanton. It could be an offense that finishes last in runs scored in the National League by a wide margin. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Steve Cishek
Relief: RHP Jon Rauch
Relief: LHP Mike Dunn
Relief: RHP A.J. Ramos
Relief: RHP Evan Reed   
Relief: RHP Chris Hatcher
Relief: LHP Daniel Jennings

Cishek was impressive following his promotion to the closer’s role last year, posting 15 saves with a 2.69 ERA. Jennings also impressed with a 1.89 ERA in 22 outings, and Ramos delivered a 3.86 ERA and 12.5 K/9 rate in a September call-up. 

Bench

C Jeff Mathis 
1B Nick Green
INF Greg Dobbs
OF Gorkys Hernandez
UTIL Chone Figgins

Dobbs will start in the absence of Morrison at the beginning of the season. If Figgins can somehow erase the memory of the past three seasons in Seattle, he could be of great benefit to the Marlins.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Yovani Gallardo
2. RHP Marco Estrada
3. RHP Mike Fiers
4. LHP Chris Narveson
5. RHP Wily Peralta

Uncertainty is the word for the Brewers rotation in 2013. Beyond Gallardo, it’s a staff that has plenty of promise but not much experience. Narveson is returning from rotator cuff surgery. If he proves unable to go, Mark Rogers will be ready and willing.

Starting Lineup 

C: Jonathan Lucroy
1B: Mat Gamel
2B: Rickie Weeks
3B: Aramis Ramirez
SS: Jean Segura
LF: Ryan Braun
CF: Carlos Gomez
RF: Norichika Aoki

With Corey Hart undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery in late January, Gamel gets an opportunity to prove himself once again after a torn ACL ended his season last May. Segura will get an opportunity to shine at shortstop, but he could have a short leash with Alex Gonzalez serving as his backup. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP John Axford
Relief: LHP Mike Gonzalez
Relief: RHP Jim Henderson
Relief: LHP Tom Gorzelanny
Relief: RHP Burke Badenhop   
Relief: RHP Brandon Kintzler
Relief: RHP Mark Rogers

The Brewers bolstered the bullpen with Gonzalez, Gorzelanny and Badenhop after finishing with a league-worst 4.66 ERA last season. Strengthening the ‘pen should give the young starting rotation plenty of support. 

Bench

C Martin Maldonado 
SS Alex Gonzalez
INF Taylor Green
OF Logan Schafer
UTIL Jeff Bianchi

Green will provide a solid defensive presence throughout the infield, while Gonzalez provides insurance for Segura at short.

Schafer impressed in his late-season call-up with a .304 average. He could at times spell Gomez in center against right-handed pitching.

Bianchi could just be filler until Hart is ready to return.

Starting Rotation

1. LHP Scott Diamond
2. RHP Vance Worley
3. RHP Kevin Correia
4. RHP Liam Hendriks
5. RHP Rich Harden

Newcomer Mike Pelfrey is progressing after undergoing Tommy John surgery in early May, but he is still likely to start the season on the DL.

Harden is the clear long shot here. While loaded with potential, his career has been dotted with numerous arm injuries.

Diamond’s Opening Day status is in doubt after undergoing minor surgery to remove a bone chip from his left elbow in the offseason.

Starting Lineup

C: Joe Mauer
1B: Justin Morneau
2B: Jamey Carroll
3B: Trevor Plouffe
SS: Pedro Florimon
LF: Josh Willingham
CF: Darin Mastroianni
RF: Chris Parmelee
DH: Ryan Doumit

Carroll is the second baseman for now, but Brian Dozier could eventually push him to a bench role. The Twins believe in Dozier’s bat—he hit .298 over four years in the minors—and asked him to transition to second base this winter.

With Ben Revere and Denard Span gone, Mastroianni and Parmelee will be given every opportunity to step up. 

Bullpen

Closer: LHP Glen Perkins
Relief: RHP Jared Burton
Relief: RHP Casey Fien
Relief: RHP Josh Roenicke
Relief: RHP Alex Burnett   
Relief: LHP Tyler Robertson
Relief: LHP Brian Duensing

Perkins and Burton are the rocks in the bullpen, while Roenicke adds a solid four-pitch repertoire and five years of experience. 

Bench

C Drew Butera 
INF Brian Dozier
INF Eduardo Escobar
OF Brandon Boggs

The Twins have Aaron Hicks lying in wait for the outfield, but he’s likely to get more seasoning at the Triple-A level. Boggs is likely to serve as the fourth outfielder for now.

Starting Rotation

1. LHP Johan Santana
2. RHP Shaun Marcum
3. RHP Jonathan Niese
4. RHP Matt Harvey
5. RHP Dillon Gee

Gee will look to reassert himself after his 2012 season was cut short by a blood clot in his right shoulder. Marcum will also look to quiet his critics after a two-month stay on the disabled list with elbow tightness just three years after undergoing Tommy John surgery.

Starting Lineup 

C: John Buck
1B: Ike Davis
2B: Daniel Murphy
3B: David Wright
SS: Ruben Tejada
LF: Lucas Duda
CF: Kirk Nieuwenhuis
RF: Mike Baxter

The biggest question mark for the Mets is their outfield. Duda endured a demotion to the minors last year, Nieuwenhuis got off to a promising start before the roof caved in during the second half, and Baxter delivered just three home runs in 179 at-bats. The bulk of the power will come from Wright and Davis.

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Bobby Parnell
Relief: RHP Brandon Lyon
Relief: RHP Scott Atchison
Relief: RHP LaTroy Hawkins
Relief: LHP Josh Edgin   
Relief: LHP Pedro Feliciano
Relief: RHP Jeremy Hefner

With Frank Francisco being shut down with right elbow inflammation, his status is very much in doubt. Parnell graduates to the role of closer in his absence.

General manager Sandy Alderson brought in a bevy of veteran arms in Atchison, Lyon, Hawkins and Feliciano. Whether or not that quartet brings better results than last year’s veterans remains to be seen.

Bench

C Anthony Recker 
UTIL Justin Turner
UTIL Jordany Valdespin
OF Andrew Brown
OF Collin Cowgill

Recker will back up Buck as prospect catcher Travis d’Arnaud works his way back from a knee injury and gets regular at-bats at the Triple-A level. Turner provides a solid backup solution to Murphy and Wright.

Starting Rotation

1. LHP CC Sabathia
2. RHP Hiroki Kuroda
3. LHP Andy Pettitte
4. RHP Phil Hughes
5. RHP Ivan Nova

Kuroda and Pettitte are back on one-year contracts, with Pettitte hoping to stay healthy and contribute in his age-40 season. 

Starting Lineup

C: Francisco Cervelli
1B: Mark Teixeira
2B: Robinson Cano
3B: Kevin Youkilis
SS: Derek Jeter
LF: Brett Gardner
CF: Curtis Granderson
RF: Ichiro Suzuki
DH: Travis Hafner

The Yankees will hope that Youkilis can reverse a downward offensive trend over the past two seasons while staying healthy in the absence of Alex Rodriguez. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Mariano Rivera
Relief: RHP David Robertson
Relief: LHP Boone Logan
Relief: RHP Joba Chamberlain
Relief: LHP Clay Rapada   
Relief: RHP David Aardsma
Relief: RHP David Phelps

Rivera brings his 608 saves and 2.21 career ERA back for at least one more season. Hard to doubt his ability to bounce back from a torn ACL.

Phelps will serve as the long reliever/spot starter. 

Bench

C Chris Stewart 
UTIL Juan Rivera
IF Eduardo Nunez
OF Matt Diaz

Diaz and Rivera provide a wealth of experience on the bench, while Nunez has shown off a productive bat over three seasons.

Starting Rotation

1. LHP Brett Anderson
2. RHP Jarrod Parker
3. LHP Tommy Milone
4. RHP A.J. Griffin
5. RHP Bartolo Colon

The starting rotation certainly proved its worth last season in helping to lead the A’s back to the postseason for the first time since 2006. Colon returns after his 50-game suspension, and the A’s have Dan Straily on standby as well. 

Starting Lineup

C: John Jaso
1B: Brandon Moss
2B: Scott Sizemore
3B: Jed Lowrie
SS: Hiroyuki Nakajima
LF: Yoenis Cespedes
CF: Coco Crisp
RF: Josh Reddick
DH: Seth Smith

The addition of Lowrie adds some punch to the left side of the infield. Sizemore looks to bounce back after missing the entire 2012 season. If Nakajima can’t adjust to playing on American soil, Lowrie could move over to short, with Josh Donaldson taking over at third. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Ryan Cook
Relief: LHP Sean Doolittle
Relief: LHP Jerry Blevins
Relief: RHP Pat Neshek
Relief: LHP Jordan Norberto   
Relief: RHP Fernando Rodriguez
Relief: RHP Dan Straily

Grant Balfour’s status as the Opening Day closer was thrown in jeopardy with his surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee (h/t Susan Slusser, SF Gate). Cook will serve as the closer in his absence, which is likely to be brief, if at all. 

Bench

C Derek Norris 
3B Josh Donaldson
1B Daric Barton
OF Chris Young

Young will have plenty of opportunities for at-bats, both as DH and in left or center field.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Roy Halladay
2. LHP Cliff Lee
3. LHP Cole Hamels
4. RHP Kyle Kendrick
5. LHP John Lannan

The loss of Vance Worley may not hurt much—Lannan brings a solid resume as the No. 5 starter. Halladay will look to bounce back from one of the worst seasons of his stellar career.

Starting Lineup 

C: Erik Kratz
1B: Ryan Howard
2B: Chase Utley
3B: Michael Young
SS: Jimmy Rollins
LF: Darin Ruf
CF: Ben Revere
RF: Domonic Brown

Revere brings youth, speed and athleticism to the Phillies outfield, while Brown will hope to finally deliver on the promise that the Phillies have been patiently waiting for. Young gets a fresh start and could thrive in a more hitter-friendly park. Ruf gets early playing time with Delmon Young starting the season on the disabled list. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Jonathan Papelbon
Relief: RHP Mike Adams
Relief: LHP Antonio Bastardo
Relief: RHP Mike Stutes
Relief: RHP Chad Durbin   
Relief: LHP Jeremy Horst
Relief: LHP Raul Valdes

Adams is on track to be ready for the start of the season after undergoing surgery to correct thoracic outlet syndrome last year. One of the best relievers in baseball over the past five seasons, he will help build a better bridge between the starting rotation and Papelbon. 

Bench

C Humberto Quintero 
OF Laynce Nix
INF Kevin Frandsen
INF Freddy Galvis
OF John Mayberry

Quintero will serve as the backup catcher until Carlos Ruiz is eligible to return from his 25-game suspension. Mayberry gives manager Charlie Manuel options in the outfield during Young's absence.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP A.J. Burnett
2. LHP Wandy Rodriguez
3. RHP James McDonald
4. RHP Jeff Karstens
5. RHP Kyle McPherson

Solid at the top and steady in the middle best describes the Pirates rotation. Burnett and Rodriguez should both provide quality innings, while McDonald will see if he can repeat last season’s first-half success throughout the entire year.

McPherson will fill in as the fifth starter until Francisco Liriano is able to return from a fractured right arm.

Starting Lineup

C: Russell Martin
1B: Garrett Jones
2B: Neil Walker
3B: Pedro Alvarez
SS: Clint Barnes
LF: Starling Marte
CF: Andrew McCutchen
RF: Travis Snider

If first baseman Gaby Sanchez can regain his form at the plate, he’ll move Jones back to right field. For now, Sanchez will get looks against left-handed pitching. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Jason Grilli
Relief: RHP Mark Melancon
Relief: LHP Tony Watson
Relief: RHP Jared Hughes
Relief: LHP Justin Wilson   
Relief: RHP Chris Leroux
Relief: LHP Jeff Locke

Grilli takes over as closer following the departure of Joel Hanrahan, while Melancon will look to bounce back from a forgettable season with the Boston Red Sox. For now, Locke could serve in long relief and as rotation depth. 

Bench

C Michael McKenry 
1B Gaby Sanchez
3B Brandon Inge
OF Jose Tabata
OF Josh Harrison

Last week's signing of Inge adds depth and a potent bat to the left side of the infield. McKenry delivered 12 HR and 39 RBI last season in 240 at-bats, and Tabata and Marte will each get looks in left field.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Edinson Volquez
2. LHP Clayton Richard
3. RHP Jason Marquis
4. LHP Eric Stults
5. RHP Freddy Garcia

Marquis and Garcia are temporary rotation filler until Padres prospects are finally ready to break through. With the fences now pulled in at Petco Park, this starting five will be challenged at home in 2013. 

Starting Lineup

C: Nick Hundley
1B: Yonder Alonso
2B: Logan Forsythe
3B: Chase Headley
SS: Everth Cabrera
LF: Carlos Quentin
CF: Cameron Maybin
RF: Will Venable

Not a sexy lineup, but Headley and Quentin will help provide the punch. Venable and Chris Denorfia worked just fine last year as a tandem in right field; that will likely continue again in 2013.

Hundley will need to step up offensively (.157 average in 2012) with Yasmani Grandal serving a 50-game suspension to start the season.

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Huston Street
Relief: RHP Luke Gregerson
Relief: RHP Brad Brach
Relief: RHP Dale Thayer
Relief: LHP Joe Thatcher   
Relief: RHP Brad Boxberger
Relief: RHP Anthony Bass

The bullpen will serve as a major strength for the Padres in 2013. Street and Gregerson are top notch in the back end, and Brach, Thayer and Thatcher were more than serviceable throughout last season.

Bench

C John Baker 
IF Alexi Amarista
UTIL Jesus Guzman
OF Chris Denorfia
OF Mark Kotsay

Kotsay and Denorifa are both capable of giving quality at-bats, while Amarista provides depth in the middle infield.    

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Matt Cain
2. LHP Madison Bumgarner
3. RHP Ryan Vogelsong
4. RHP Tim Lincecum
5. LHP Barry Zito

The Giants rotation returns intact, and Lincecum will look to figure out his mechanics and find his heater as he tries to erase the memory of a rough regular season. 

Starting Lineup

C: Buster Posey
1B: Brandon Belt
2B: Marco Scutaro
3B: Pablo Sandoval
SS: Brandon Crawford
LF: Gregor Blanco
CF: Angel Pagan
RF: Hunter Pence

The everyday lineup for the Giants delivered just the right amount of power and timely hitting on their way to a World Series title last year. Belt could deliver more power as he matures, and Blanco will likely platoon with returning Giant Andres Torres. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Sergio Romo
Relief: LHP Jeremy Affeldt
Relief: RHP Santiago Casilla
Relief: LHP Javier Lopez
Relief: LHP Jose Mijares   
Relief: RHP George Kontos
Relief: RHP Ramon Ramirez

Manager Bruce Bochy will have plenty of veteran depth when he makes the call to the bullpen in 2013. Romo solidified the closer’s role with a terrific effort down the stretch and in the postseason. Ramirez returns home after a trying season with the New York Mets. 

Bench

C Hector Sanchez
SS Joaquin Arias
1B Brett Pill
OF Andres Torres
UTIL Conor Gillaspie

A solid bench for the Giants, with Arias providing capable backup duties for Crawford, Torres lending a hand in left field and Sanchez delivering with a quality bat behind the plate in Posey's place.    

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Felix Hernandez
2. LHP Joe Saunders
3. RHP Hisashi Iwakuma
4. RHP Blake Beavan
5. RHP Erasmo Ramirez

Hernandez’s new $175 million contract is now but a distant memory—he’ll front a rotation that added savvy veteran Joe Saunders, replacing Jason Vargas as the lone southpaw in the group. 

Starting Lineup

C: Jesus Montero
1B: Justin Smoak
2B: Dustin Ackley
3B: Kyle Seager
SS: Brendan Ryan
LF: Michael Morse
CF: Franklin Gutierrez
RF: Michael Saunders
DH: Kendrys Morales

The Mariners are still waiting for Smoak to show why they traded Cliff Lee to the Texas Rangers in 2010. If Smoak isn’t up to the task, Morse could move from left to first, giving Raul Ibanez and Jason Bay more of a voice in the offense.

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Tom Wilhelmsen
Relief: LHP Charlie Furbush
Relief: LHP Oliver Perez
Relief: LHP Lucas Luetge
Relief: RHP Stephen Pryor   
Relief: RHP Josh Kinney
Relief: RHP Carter Capps

Wilhelmsen shined in the closer’s role last season with 29 saves and a 2.50 ERA. Furbush also found his niche when he transitioned to the bullpen.

Bench

C Kelly Shoppach
2B Robert Andino
OF Jason Bay
OF Raul Ibanez

Bay could be the wild card of this group. If he can somehow regain the stroke that produced 36 HR with 119 RBI for the Boston Red Sox in 2009, the Mariners offense will climb out of the cellar in the American League.      

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Adam Wainwright
2. LHP Jaime Garcia
3. RHP Lance Lynn
4. RHP Jake Westbrook
5. RHP Shelby Miller

The battle for the fifth starter will come down to Miller and Trevor Rosenthal. Rosenthal showed off his skills in relief last season—he’ll join the team in a long relief role for now. Joe Kelly is a strong candidate for the No. 5 role as well. 

Starting Lineup

C: Yadier Molina
1B: Allen Craig
2B: Daniel Descalso
3B: David Freese
SS: Rafael Furcal
LF: Matt Holliday
CF: Jon Jay
RF: Carlos Beltran

A balanced offense is one of the Cardinals' strengths entering the 2013 season. Beltran will hope to put up better numbers in the second half, and Descalso could find his playing time cut significantly if Matt Carpenter proves to be proficient at second base. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Jason Motte
Relief: RHP Mitchell Boggs
Relief: LHP Marc Rzepczynski
Relief: LHP Randy Choate
Relief: RHP Edward Mujica   
Relief: RHP Fernando Salas
Relief: RHP Trevor Rosenthal

A balanced and deep bullpen will be an asset for the Cardinals in 2013. Newcomer Choate gives manager Mike Matheny two excellent left-handed arms, and Rosenthal helps in any situation. 

Bench

C Tony Cruz
INF Ronny Cedeno
INF Matt Carpenter
OF Ty Wigginton
OF Shane Robinson

The Cardinals return a solid bench this season—Wigginton helps to provide depth in the corner outfield positions as well as first base. Cedeno could be very useful if Furcal’s health fails him again.   

Starting Rotation

1. LHP David Price
2. RHP Jeremy Hellickson
3. LHP Matt Moore
4. RHP Jeff Niemann
5. RHP Alex Cobb

Price leads a strong group. The losses of James Shields and Wade Davis hurt, but the Rays’ depth will shine through once again. At some point in 2013, Chris Archer and Jake Odorizzi could have considerable impact as well. 

Starting Lineup

C: Jose Molina
1B: James Loney
2B: Kelly Johnson
3B: Evan Longoria
SS: Yunel Escobar
LF: Matt Joyce
CF: Desmond Jennings
RF: Ben Zobrist
DH: Luke Scott

Escobar takes over at shortstop after several years of a platoon with Elliot Johnson, Reid Brignac and Sean Rodriguez. Scott will try to bounce back from a year marred by injuries. At some point, newly acquired prospect Wil Myers will make an impact.

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Fernando Rodney
Relief: RHP Joel Peralta
Relief: LHP Jake McGee
Relief: LHP Cesar Ramos
Relief: RHP Roberto Hernandez   
Relief: RHP Kyle Farnsworth
Relief: RHP Brandon Gomes

In 2012, Rodney delivered an incredible year on the cheap for the Rays. He could do the same once again with just a $2.5 million salary this year.

Bench

C Jose Lobaton
INF Sean Rodriguez
UTIL Ryan Roberts
OF Shelley Duncan

Duncan will compete with Sam Fuld and Brandon Guyer for the fourth outfielder slot. Duncan has considerable power, but his .203 average with the Cleveland Indians last season is certainly a concern. At some point, Myers will make his way onto the roster, leaving Duncan, Guyer and Fuld out in the cold.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Yu Darvish
2. LHP Matt Harrison
3. LHP Derek Holland
4. RHP Alexi Ogando
5. LHP Martin Perez

Colby Lewis is expected back sometime around June. Neftali Feliz is likely out for a significant portion of the season following Tommy John surgery last August. In the meantime, the Rangers will make do unless general manager Jon Daniels has something else left up his sleeve. 

Starting Lineup

C: A.J. Pierzynski
1B: Mitch Moreland
2B: Ian Kinsler
3B: Adrian Beltre
SS: Elvis Andrus
LF: David Murphy
CF: Leonys Martin
RF: Nelson Cruz
DH: Lance Berkman

Martin will get a legitimate shot to show he’s ready for prime time, and Craig Gentry will be on standby should Martin fail to deliver. Murphy switches from his utility role for the first time in a Rangers uniform.

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Joe Nathan
Relief: RHP Jason Frasor
Relief: LHP Robbie Ross
Relief: RHP Josh Lindblom
Relief: RHP Tanner Scheppers   
Relief: LHP Michael Kirkman
Relief: RHP Wilmer Font

Frasor will get an opportunity to set up for Nathan with Joakim Soria not expected back until late May at the earliest. Adding Lindblom helps, and Ross was outstanding last year with a 6-0 record and 2.22 ERA. 

Bench

C Geovany Soto
INF Jeff Baker
OF Craig Gentry
OF Leury Garcia

Soto is a capable backup behind the plate, but the bat has completely disappeared since his outstanding rookie season with the Chicago Cubs. Gentry offers great speed, range and a solid bat.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP R.A. Dickey
2. RHP Brandon Morrow
3. LHP Mark Buehrle
4. RHP Josh Johnson
5. LHP Ricky Romero

Dickey, Johnson and Buehrle add instant credibility to a rotation that suffered through a spate of injuries and poor performance in 2012. 

Starting Lineup

C: J.P. Arencibia
1B: Edwin Encarnacion
2B: Emilio Bonifacio
3B: Brett Lawrie
SS: Jose Reyes
LF: Melky Cabrera
CF: Colby Rasmus
RF: Jose Bautista
DH: Adam Lind

The addition of Reyes and Cabrera at the top of the batting order gives sluggers Bautista and Encarnacion a bevy of run-scoring opportunities. Maicer Izturis will see time at second as well, along with Bonifacio.

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Casey Janssen
Relief: RHP Steve Delabar
Relief: RHP Sergio Santos
Relief: LHP Darren Oliver
Relief: RHP Esmil Rogers   
Relief: RHP Jeremy Jeffress
Relief: LHP J.A. Happ

At some point in 2013, Janssen could see competition from Sergio Santos, returning after a shoulder injury cut short his 2012 season. Delabar and Rogers offer solid right-handed arms, and Oliver is clearly still effective as a left-handed option at the age of 42.

Bench

C Josh Thole
INF Maicer Izturis
UTIL Mark DeRosa
OF Rajai Davis

DeRosa brings a wealth of experience and a terrific clubhouse presence. Izturis covers second, short and third with considerable acumen, and Davis brings outstanding speed (46 stolen bases in 2012) off the bench.

Starting Rotation

1. RHP Stephen Strasburg
2. LHP Gio Gonzalez
3. RHP Jordan Zimmermann
4. RHP Dan Haren
5. LHP Ross Detwiler

The Nationals will be hoping that the back issues that plagued Dan Haren last season are a thing of the past. Strasburg will have the kid gloves taken off this year as he eyes a 200 inning-plus campaign. 

Starting Lineup

C: Wilson Ramos
1B: Adam LaRoche
2B: Danny Espinosa
3B: Ryan Zimmerman
SS: Ian Desmond
LF: Bryce Harper
CF: Denard Span
RF: Jayson Werth

Span gives the Nationals a legitimate leadoff hitter, moving Werth to second and dropping Harper to fifth. If Ramos stays healthy for the entire season, that could aid the offense as well. 

Bullpen

Closer: RHP Rafael Soriano
Relief: RHP Drew Storen
Relief: RHP Tyler Clippard
Relief: RHP Ryan Mattheus
Relief: RHP Henry Rodriguez   
Relief: LHP Zach Duke
Relief: RHP Craig Stammen

Soriano gives the Nationals a potent trio at the back end of the bullpen. Storen and Clippard will provide more than enough support in the seventh and eighth innings. 

Bench

C Kurt Suzuki
INF Tyler Moore
INF Chad Tracy
OF Roger Bernadina
UTIL Steve Lombardozzi

The Nationals have great depth and flexibility in their bench. Moore can be utilized in both corner outfield positions as well as first, Tracy can fill both infield corners and Lombardozzi provides support up the middle.

Doug Mead is a featured columnist with Bleacher Report. His work has been featured on the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, SF Gate, CBS Sports, the Los Angeles Times and the Houston Chronicle.

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