All 30 MLB Teams' 2015 Depth Charts at the Start of Spring Training Camp
MLB spring training is a stressful time of year for borderline big leaguers looking to crack a roster. Utility infielders, bullpen arms and fifth-starter candidates all know the feeling.
Of course, there are also some former All-Stars like Shane Victorino and Andre Ethier who find themselves in unfamiliar roster positions as the 2015 season approaches.
So, let's take a look around the league at where everybody stands. From the superstars like Clayton Kershaw to the pinch runners just scrambling to find a job, here's a rundown of all 30 MLB teams' depth charts at the start of spring training.
Houston Astros
1 of 30
The Position Players
C: Jason Castro; Hank Conger; Evan Gattis
1B: Jonathan Singleton; Gattis; Chris Carter
2B: Jose Altuve; Marwin Gonzalez
SS: Jed Lowrie; Gonzalez; Jonathan Villar
3B: Luis Valbuena; Matt Dominguez
LF: Gattis; Jake Marisnick; Robbie Grossman
CF: Colby Rasmus; Marisnick; George Springer
RF: Springer; Marisnick; Grossman
DH: Carter; Gattis; Castro
There are a lot of moving pieces in the Houston Astros outfield. Colby Rasmus, George Springer and Jake Marisnick are all capable of playing center field. Plus, there's a chance that Robbie Grossman could crack the 25-man roster as a backup outfielder.
The Starting Rotation
1. Scott Feldman
2. Dallas Keuchel
3. Collin McHugh
4. Brett Oberholtzer
5. Dan Straily; Brad Peacock
Acquired as part of the Dexter Fowler trade with the Chicago Cubs, Dan Straily will enter camp with the chance to snag the No. 5 spot in the rotation, per Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. Straily spent most of 2014 in Triple-A, but he posted a 10-8 record and a 3.96 ERA in 2013 for the Oakland Athletics.
The Bullpen
Closer: Chad Qualls; Luke Gregerson
RH: Gregerson; Pat Neshek; Will Harris; Josh Fields; Samuel Deduno
LH: Tony Sipp; Kevin Chapman
The bullpen has been a major liability for the Astros in recent seasons, but the signings of Luke Gregerson and Pat Neshek should help shore up that weakness.
Los Angeles Angels
2 of 30
The Position Players
C: Chris Iannetta; Drew Butera; Carlos Perez
1B: Albert Pujols; C.J. Cron
2B: Josh Rutledge; Grant Green
SS: Erick Aybar; Rutledge; Taylor Featherston
3B: David Freese; Rutledge
LF: Josh Hamilton; Matt Joyce; Collin Cowgill
CF: Mike Trout; Cowgill
RF: Kole Calhoun; Joyce; Cowgill
DH: Cron; Pujols; Joyce
The acquisition of Matt Joyce is looking awfully smart after Josh Hamilton had to undergo right shoulder surgery. Along with C.J. Cron and Collin Cowgill, Joyce figures to get more at-bats now that Hamilton is a question mark for Opening Day.
The Rotation
1. Jered Weaver
2. Garrett Richards
3. Matt Shoemaker
4. C.J. Wilson
5. Andrew Heaney; Hector Santiago
DL: Tyler Skaggs
The Los Angeles Angels have no plans to "rush" Garrett Richards back from his knee injury, as general manager Jerry Dipoto explained via Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register. If Richards misses the start of the season, there should be room for both Andrew Heaney and Hector Santiago in the starting rotation.
The Bullpen
Closer: Huston Street
RH: Joe Smith; Mike Morin; Fernando Salas; Vinnie Pestano; Cam Bedrosian; Cory Rasmus; Jeremy McBryde
LH: Cesar Ramos; Scott Snodgress
Manager Mike Scioscia is going to have some difficult decisions to make when it comes to shaping his bullpen, as the team simply has too many right-handed relievers to fit onto the roster.
Oakland Athletics
3 of 30
The Position Players
C: Stephen Vogt; Josh Phegley
1B: Ike Davis; Billy Butler; Nate Freiman; Mark Canha
2B: Ben Zobrist; Eric Sogard
SS: Marcus Semien; Zobrist; Sogard
3B: Brett Lawrie; Semien
LF: Sam Fuld; Craig Gentry; Zobrist; Canha
CF: Coco Crisp; Gentry; Fuld; Zobrist
RF: Josh Reddick; Gentry; Fuld; Zobrist
DH: Butler; Crisp; Freiman
It's not easy to draw up a depth chart for a club like the Oakland Athletics, who are built on platoons and have a roster full of highly versatile players. Ben Zobrist is the perfect example, as he is likely to see playing time all over the infield and outfield in 2015.
The Rotation
1. Sonny Gray
2. Scott Kazmir
3. Jesse Hahn
4. Jesse Chavez
5. Drew Pomeranz; Chris Bassitt; Sean Nolin; Kendall Graveman
The final three spots in Oakland's rotation will be up for grabs. After a busy winter of trades, manager Bob Melvin will have more than enough viable options to chose from.
The Bullpen
Closer: Sean Doolittle; Tyler Clippard
RH: Clippard; Dan Otero; Ryan Cook; Evan Scribner; Eury De La Rosa
LH: Eric O'Flaherty; Fernando Abad
Tyler Clippard looks like the logical choice to fill in at the closer's spot, as Sean Doolittle works his way back from a slight tear in his rotator cuff. According to Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle, Doolittle isn't expected to "miss a ton of time."
Seattle Mariners
4 of 30
The Position Players
C: Mike Zunino; Jesus Sucre
1B: Logan Morrison; Willie Bloomquist
2B: Robinson Cano; Rickie Weeks
SS: Brad Miller; Chris Taylor; Bloomquist
3B: Kyle Seager; Bloomquist
LF: Dustin Ackley; Nelson Cruz
CF: Austin Jackson; Justin Ruggiano; Endy Chavez; James Jones
RF: Seth Smith; Ruggiano; Chavez
DH: Cruz; Weeks
The key position battle for the Seattle Mariners will be figuring out who will be stationed at shortstop on Opening Day. Brad Miller spent most of 2014 at that spot, but by the end of the season he was splitting time with Chris Taylor.
The Rotation
1. Felix Hernandez
2. Hisashi Iwakuma
3. James Paxton
4. J.A. Happ
5. Taijuan Walker; Roenis Elias; Erasmo Ramirez
Taijuan Walker has the most prominent name in the race for the No. 5 spot, but Roenis Elias is a serious competitor for this job. Last season, the lefty went 10-12 with a 3.85 ERA in 29 starts.
The Bullpen
Closer: Fernando Rodney
RH: Dominic Leone; Tom Wilhelmsen; Danny Farquhar; Yoervis Medina; Carson Smith
LH: Charlie Furbush; Lucas Luetge; David Rollins
Headlined by the likes of Fernando Rodney and Dominic Leone, the M's bullpen is loaded and ranks as one of the most intimidating groups in baseball.
Texas Rangers
5 of 30
The Position Players
C: Robinson Chirinos; Carlos Corporan
1B: Prince Fielder; Kyle Blanks
2B: Rougned Odor; Adam Rosales; Jurickson Profar
SS: Elvis Andrus; Rosales
3B: Adrian Beltre; Rosales
LF: Ryan Rua; Michael Choice; Blanks
CF: Leonys Martin; Choice
RF: Shin-Soo Choo; Choice
DH: Mitch Moreland; Blanks; Rua
The Texas Rangers have all sorts of options in the middle of the infield, where there will likely be no place on the roster for Jurickson Profar when Opening Day rolls around.
The Rotation
1. Yu Darvish
2. Derek Holland
3. Yovani Gallardo
4. Colby Lewis
5. Ross Detwiler; Nick Martinez; Nick Tepesch
There's a lot to like about the Rangers' top three starters, but after that there's a major drop off in talent.
The Bullpen
Closer: Neftali Feliz
RH: Tanner Scheppers; Shawn Tolleson; Roman Mendez; Kyuji Fujikawa; Phil Klein; Spencer Patton
LH: Alex Claudio
The Rangers bullpen needs to be significantly better than it was a season ago when it ranked No. 24 in ERA, per MLB.com. As is the case all across the league, the losers in the competition for the No. 5 spot in the rotation will be in the mix for a relief gig.
Chicago White Sox
6 of 30
The Position Players
C: Tyler Flowers; Geovany Soto
1B: Jose Abreu; Adam LaRoche
2B: Carlos Sanchez; Emilio Bonifacio; Gordon Beckham; Micah Johnson
SS: Alexei Ramirez; Sanchez; Bonifacio
3B: Conor Gillaspie; Bonifacio; Beckham
LF: Melky Cabrera; J.B. Shuck; Bonifacio
CF: Adam Eaton; Bonifacio
RF: Avisail Garcia; Bonifacio
DH: LaRoche; Abreu
The 22-year-old Carlos Sanchez is the front-runner to start at second for the Chicago White Sox, but veterans Emilio Bonifacio and Gordon Beckham will both be pushing him for playing time in camp.
The Rotation
1. Chris Sale
2. Jeff Samardzija
3. Jose Quintana
4. John Danks
5. Hector Noesi
The acquisition of Jeff Samardzija was one of the most critical moves of the entire offseason for the White Sox. With Samardzija now on the staff, Chicago has one of the best top threes in the majors.
The Bullpen
Closer: David Robertson
RH: Jake Petricka; Nate Jones; Daniel Webb; Javy Guerra; Zach Putnam; Maikel Cleto
LH: Zach Duke; Dan Jennings
The bullpen was a mess for the White Sox in 2014. As a result, there's a ton of pressure on new acquisitions David Robertson and Zach Duke to deliver in the upcoming season.
Cleveland Indians
7 of 30
The Position Players
C: Yan Gomes; Roberto Perez
1B: Carlos Santana; Brandon Moss
2B: Jason Kipnis; Mike Aviles
SS: Jose Ramirez; Aviles
3B: Lonnie Chisenhall; Aviles
LF: Michael Brantley; Moss
CF: Michael Bourn; Brantley
RF: Moss; David Murphy; Nick Swisher; Ryan Raburn
DH: Swisher; Moss; Santana; Raburn
This lineup has the potential to score a ton of runs. Brandon Moss, who was one of the Cleveland Indians' most notable offseason acquisitions, could play a key part in the offensive attack. After a hip injury wrecked the second half of his 2014 season, Moss will have to prove that he's healthy again this spring.
The Rotation
1. Corey Kluber
2. Carlos Carrasco
3. Danny Salazar
4. Trevor Bauer
5. Gavin Floyd; T.J. House
The Tribe will have an imposing one-two punch in Corey Kluber and Carlos Carrasco, if Carrasco continues to pitch the way he did in the second half of 2014. After the All-Star break, the right-hander ripped off a 1.72 ERA.
The Bullpen
Closer: Cody Allen
RH: Bryan Shaw; Scott Atchison; Zach McAllister; Josh Tomlin; C.C. Lee
LH: Marc Rzepczynski; Kyle Crockett; Nick Hagadone
After locking up 24 saves a season ago, Cody Allen has the chance to cement his status as one of the premier closers in the AL in 2015.
Detroit Tigers
8 of 30
The Position Players
C: Alex Avila; Bryan Holaday
1B: Miguel Cabrera; Victor Martinez
2B: Ian Kinsler; Andrew Romine; Hernan Perez
SS: Jose Iglesias; Romine; Perez
3B: Nick Castellanos; Perez
LF: Yoenis Cespedes; J.D. Martinez; Tyler Collins
CF: Anthony Gose; Rajai Davis; Collins
RF: J.D. Martinez; Steven Moya
DH: V. Martinez; Cabrera; Cespedes
This depth chart could look a lot different by the time Opening Day arrives, as neither Miguel Cabrera nor Victor Martinez is a lock to begin the season in the starting lineup.
The Rotation
1. David Price
2. Justin Verlander
3. Anibal Sanchez
4. Shane Greene
5. Alfredo Simon
Entering camp, this is as shaky as the Tigers rotation has looked in recent memory. A return to form for Justin Verlander would be a big help in weathering the losses of Max Scherzer and Rick Porcello.
The Bullpen
Closer: Joe Nathan
RH: Joakim Soria; Bruce Rondon; Al Albuquerque; Alex Wilson; Josh Zeid
LH: Tom Gorzelanny; Ian Krol; Kyle Lobstein
The bullpen was a train wreck for the Tigers in 2014. Considering the weakened state of the rotation, that can't happen again in the upcoming season.
Kansas City Royals
9 of 30
The Position Players
C: Salvador Perez; Erik Kratz
1B: Eric Hosmer; Kendrys Morales
2B: Omar Infante; Christian Colon
SS: Alcides Escobar; Colon
3B: Mike Moustakas; Colon
LF: Alex Gordon; Jarrod Dyson
CF: Lorenzo Cain; Dyson; Terrance Gore
RF: Alex Rios; Cain
DH: Morales; Rios
The Kansas City Royals' starting lineup is essentially locked in heading into camp, but at least one spot remains up for grabs on the bench. Terrance Gore, who provides game-changing speed, could snag that final job.
The Rotation
1. Yordano Ventura
2. Edinson Volquez
3. Danny Duffy
4. Jeremy Guthrie
5. Jason Vargas; Kris Medlen
With James Shields now pitching for the San Diego Padres, the Royals will need Yordano Ventura and Danny Duffy to thrive. Edinson Volquez could also prove to be a shrewd addition for the Royals. Last year, the right-hander went 13-7 with a 3.04 ERA for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Bullpen
Closer: Greg Holland
RH: Wade Davis; Kelvin Herrera; Jason Frasor; Luke Hochevar; Yohan Pino; Louis Coleman
LH: Tim Collins; Brandon Finnegan
After a historically dominant season in 2014, everyone will be watching to see if the Big Three of Greg Holland, Wade Davis and Kelvin Herrera can maintain that ridiculously high level in the upcoming season.
Minnesota Twins
10 of 30
The Position Players
C: Kurt Suzuki; Josmil Pinto; Chris Herrmann
1B: Joe Mauer; Kennys Vargas
2B: Brian Dozier; Eduardo Escobar
SS: Danny Santana; Escobar; Eduardo Nunez
3B: Trevor Plouffe; Escobar; Nunez
LF: Oswaldo Arcia; Jordan Schafer
CF: Aaron Hicks; Schafer; Santana
RF: Torii Hunter; Hicks
DH: Vargas; Hunter; Mauer
Center field is the most unsettled spot for the Minnesota Twins as spring training approaches. With Danny Santana slated to return to shortstop, the battle will come down to Aaron Hicks and Jordan Schafer.
The Rotation
1. Phil Hughes
2. Ervin Santana
3. Ricky Nolasco
4. Kyle Gibson
5. Tommy Milone; Mike Pelfrey; Trevor May
Awful starting pitching has been a fundamental problem for the Twins the past couple of seasons. That makes the signing of Ervin Santana particularly important, as the veteran right-hander has made a habit of providing quality innings—a lot of them. In the past five seasons, Santana has worked at least 196 frames on four occasions.
The Bullpen
Closer: Glen Perkins
RH: Casey Fien; Ryan Pressly; Tim Stauffer; Michael Tonkin; A.J. Achter
LH: Caleb Thielbar; Brian Duensing; Aaron Thompson
As is the case with the rotation, the bullpen has not been a strong point for the Twins. Last year, the club's relievers ranked No. 21 in baseball in ERA, per MLB.com.
Baltimore Orioles
11 of 30
The Position Players
C: Matt Wieters; Caleb Joseph
1B: Chris Davis; Steve Pearce
2B: Jonathan Schoop; Ryan Flaherty
SS: J.J. Hardy; Flaherty
3B: Manny Machado; Flaherty
LF: Alejandro De Aza; David Lough; Delmon Young
CF: Adam Jones; De Aza; Lough
RF: Travis Snyder; Lough
DH: Pearce; Young; Davis
Even though Nelson Cruz and Nick Markakis have both departed, this lineup still looks strong entering the 2015 season. The primary explanation for that is the return to health of stars Manny Machado and Matt Wieters.
The Rotation
1. Chris Tillman
2. Wei-Yin Chen
3. Bud Norris
4. Kevin Gausman
5. Miguel Gonzalez; Ubaldo Jimenez
Based on how the starting rotation is currently lined up, Ubaldo Jimenez is about to be an extremely expensive member of the bullpen in 2015.
The Bullpen
Closer: Zach Britton
RH: Darren O'Day; Tommy Hunter; Ryan Webb; Brad Brach; Eddie Gamboa
LH: Brian Matusz; Wesley Wright; T.J. McFarland
With Zach Britton, Darren O'Day and Brian Matusz as the anchors, the O's bullpen once again has the potential to be lights-out in 2015.
Boston Red Sox
12 of 30
The Position Players
C: Christian Vazquez; Ryan Hanigan
1B: Mike Napoli; Allen Craig; Brock Holt
2B: Dustin Pedroia; Mookie Betts; Holt
SS: Xander Bogaerts; Holt; Hanley Ramirez
3B: Pablo Sandoval; Holt
LF: Ramirez; Craig; Holt; Daniel Nava
CF: Rusney Castillo; Betts; Jackie Bradley Jr.; Holt
RF: Betts; Shane Victorino; Holt; Nava
DH: David Ortiz; Napoli; Craig
As one look at the above depth chart clearly demonstrates, the Boston Red Sox have way too many outfielders as spring training arrives. That means manager John Farrell is going to have a lot of challenging decision to make at the end of camp.
The Rotation
1. Rick Porcello
2. Wade Miley
3. Clay Buchholz
4. Justin Masterson
5. Joe Kelly
There are plenty of established arms on the Red Sox staff, but none of them could be described as a true No. 1 starter.
The Bullpen
Closer: Koji Uehara
RH: Junichi Tazawa; Edward Mujica; Alexi Ogando; Anthony Varvaro; Zeke Spruill; Heath Hembree
LH: Craig Breslow; Robbie Ross; Tommy Layne
There's nothing overwhelming about the Red Sox's assortment of relievers. This spring, the most important storyline will be to track how closer Koji Uehara rebounds after stumbling down the stretch in 2014.
New York Yankees
13 of 30
The Position Players
C: Brian McCann; John Ryan Murphy; Austin Romine
1B: Mark Teixeira; Garrett Jones; Alex Rodriguez
2B: Rob Refsnyder; Stephen Drew; Brendan Ryan
SS: Didi Gregorius; Drew; Ryan
3B: Chase Headley; Rodriguez
LF: Brett Gardner; Chris Young
CF: Jacoby Ellsbury; Gardner
RF: Carlos Beltran; Young; Jones
DH: Jones; Rodriguez; Beltran; Young
For the New York Yankees, there's a lot to be decided this spring. Either rookie Rob Refsnyder or veteran Stephen Drew could win the second base job. Plus, there's the question of what becomes of Alex Rodriguez. If he hits during the Grapefruit League, there should be at-bats to be had once the regular season begins.
The Rotation
1. Masahiro Tanaka
2. Michael Pineda
3. CC Sabathia
4. Nathan Eovaldi
5. Chris Capuano
Everyone will be watching Masahiro Tanaka this spring. Last season, the Japanese right-hander missed two-and-a-half months with a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. For now, Yankees pitching coach Larry Rothschild is cautiously optimistic that Tanaka will be good to go on Opening Day, as he told The Associated Press (via USA Today).
"So far everything is good. That doesn't mean it will be going forward, but we're going to do everything we can. We'll put schedules together and things like that to try to keep him healthy."
The health of Tanaka's elbow will play a central role in whether the Yankees can finally get back into the playoffs for the first time since 2012.
The Bullpen
Closer: Dellin Betances; Andrew Miller
RH: Adam Warren; David Carpenter; Esmil Rogers; Jose De Paula
LH: Justin Wilson; Chasen Shreve; Jacob Lindgren
Manager Joe Girardi can't go wrong when it comes to picking the team's closer, as both Dellin Betances and Andrew Miller have demonstrated a remarkable ability to rack up strikeouts in high-leverage situations.
Tampa Bay Rays
14 of 30
The Position Players
C: Rene Rivera; John Jaso
1B: James Loney; Jaso
2B: Nick Franklin; Logan Forsythe
SS: Asdrubal Cabrera; Franklin; Tim Beckham
3B: Evan Longoria; Forsythe
LF: David DeJesus; Brandon Guyer
CF: Desmond Jennings; Steven Souza Jr.
RF: Kevin Kiermaier; Souza
DH: Jaso; DeJesus; Guyer
There will be plenty of jobs to be won at the Tampa Bay Rays' spring training camp. Both of the corner outfield spots and the second base gig are up for grabs.
The Rotation
1. Alex Cobb
2. Drew Smyly
3. Chris Archer
4. Jake Odorizzi
5. Alex Colome; Nate Karns
Concerns remain surrounding the final two spots in the rotation, but the trio of Alex Cobb, Drew Smyly and Chris Archer is as good as any in the AL East.
The Bullpen
Closer: Jake McGee; Kevin Jepsen
RH: Grant Balfour; Brad Boxberger; Kirby Yates; Ernesto Frieri; Jose Dominguez; Steve Geltz
LH: Jeff Beliveau; C.J. Riefenhauser
With Jake McGee recovering from elbow surgery, Kevin Jepsen looks like a strong option to take care of the ninth inning, according to Andrew Astleford of Fox Sports Florida.
Toronto Blue Jays
15 of 30
The Position Players
C: Russell Martin; Dioner Navarro
1B: Edwin Encarnacion; Justin Smoak
2B: Maicer Izturis; Ramon Santiago; Ryan Goins; Steve Tolleson
SS: Jose Reyes; Santiago; Goins; Tolleson
3B: Josh Donaldson; Danny Valencia; Tolleson
LF: Michael Saunders, Kevin Pillar
CF: Dalton Pompey; Pillar
RF: Jose Bautista; Pillar; Saunders
DH: Navarro; Encarnacion; Smoak
It's not going to be any fun for opposing pitchers to face this lineup. The Blue Jays offensive attack was already dangerous in 2014, and now Josh Donaldson and Russell Marin have been added to the mix.
The Rotation
1. R.A. Dickey
2. Mark Buehrle
3. Marcus Stroman
4. Drew Hutchison
5. Daniel Norris
Right now he's listed as the No. 3 starter, but by the middle of the season Marcus Stroman could be the ace of the staff.
The Bullpen
Closer: Brett Cecil
RH: Steve Delabar; Aaron Sanchez; Kyle Drabek; Marco Estrada; Todd Redmond; Chad Jenkins; Bo Schultz
LH: Aaron Loup; Rob Rasmussen
Brett Cecil is an excellent option as the new closer of the Blue Jays. During the second half of the 2014 season, the lefty reeled off a 1.50 ERA in 29 outings.
Arizona Diamondbacks
16 of 30
The Position Players
C: Tuffy Gosewisch; Oscar Hernandez; Peter O'Brien
1B: Paul Goldschmidt; Mark Trumbo
2B: Aaron Hill; Cliff Pennington; Nick Punto
SS: Chris Owings; Pennington; Punto; Nick Ahmed
3B: Yasmany Tomas; Pennington; Jake Lamb
LF: David Peralta; Ender Inciarte; Cody Ross
CF: A.J. Pollock; Inciarte
RF: Trumbo; Inciarte; Ross
Yasmany Tomas, who the Arizona Diamondbacks inked to a six-year, $68.5 million deal, won't just be the most scrutinized player in the team's camp, but one of the most scrutinized players in the majors this spring.
The Rotation
1. Josh Collmenter
2. Jeremy Hellickson
3. Vidal Nuno
4. Chase Anderson
5. Allen Webster; Trevor Cahill; Daniel Hudson
The starting rotation has been a liability for the D-backs in recent seasons, and that's likely to happen again in 2015, as Josh Collmenter is the No. 1 starter by default.
The Bullpen
Closer: Addison Reed
RH: Evan Marshall; Brad Ziegler; Randall Delgado; Rubby De La Rosa; Matt Stites; David Hernandez
LH: Oliver Perez; Matt Reynolds; Robbie Ray
Closer Addison Reed didn't exactly impress in his first season in the desert. The right-hander was especially poor at home, where he posted a 4.78 ERA at Chase Field.
Colorado Rockies
17 of 30
The Position Players
C: Nick Hundley; Wilin Rosario
1B: Justin Morneau; Rosario
2B: DJ LeMahieu; Daniel Descalso
SS: Troy Tulowitzki; Descalso
3B: Nolan Arenado; Descalso; Charlie Culberson
LF: Corey Dickerson; Drew Stubbs; Brandon Barnes
CF: Charlie Blackmon; Stubbs; Barnes
RF: Carlos Gonzalez; Blackmon; Stubbs; Barnes
Manager Walt Weiss has a lot of options in the outfield. One way for Weiss to maximize the group's productivity would be to utilize a platoon of Charlie Blackmon and Drew Stubbs in center field.
The Rotation
1. Jorge De La Rosa
2. Jhoulys Chacin
3. Jordan Lyles
4. Kyle Kendrick
5. Tyler Matzek; Christian Bergman; Eddie Butler; Chad Bettis
The starting rotation was a complete disaster in 2014, as the Rockies posted the worst ERA in the NL, per MLB.com. Based on the above list of pitchers, there's not much reason for optimism in 2015 either.
The Bullpen
Closer: LaTroy Hawkins
RH: Adam Ottavino; Tommy Kahnle; Brooks Brown; Jorge Rondon; Jairo Diaz
LH: Boone Logan; Rex Brothers; Christian Friedrich; Yohan Flande
If the Rockies go in the tank early in the season, LaTroy Hawkins could become a popular name around the trade deadline. Last season, the veteran closer turned in a 3.31 ERA and saved 23 games.
Los Angeles Dodgers
18 of 30
The Position Players
C: Yasmani Grandal; A.J. Ellis
1B: Adrian Gonzalez; Scott Van Slyke
2B: Howie Kendrick; Justin Turner; Darwin Barney; Alex Guerrero
SS: Jimmy Rollins; Turner; Barney
3B: Juan Uribe; Turner; Barney
LF: Carl Crawford; Van Slyke; Chris Heisey; Andre Ethier
CF: Joc Pederson; Yasiel Puig; Ethier; Heisey
RF: Puig; Pederson
Even with the departure of Matt Kemp, the Los Angeles Dodgers' outfield picture is looking extremely crowded. At this point, Andre Ethier's role on the roster is looking negligible.
The Rotation
1. Clayton Kershaw
2. Zack Greinke
3. Hyun-Jin Ryu
4. Brandon McCarthy
5. Brett Anderson
Brett Anderson hasn't cracked the 100-innings plateau since 2010, but if the lefty can stay healthy he'll be one of the best No. 5 starters in baseball.
The Bullpen
Closer: Kenley Jansen
RH: Joel Peralta; Pedro Baez; Brandon League; Chris Hatcher; Juan Nicasio; Yimi Garcia
LH: J.P Howell; Paco Rodriguez; Adam Liberatore
As busy as the offseason was, this bullpen, which was the club's downfall in 2014, could still use some work.
San Diego Padres
19 of 30
The Position Players
C: Derek Norris; Tim Federowicz
1B: Yonder Alonso; Tommy Medica
2B: Jedd Gyorko; Alexi Amarista
SS: Amarista; Clint Barmes
3B: Will Middlebrooks; Yangervis Solarte; Barmes
LF: Justin Upton; Carlos Quentin
CF: Wil Myers; Cameron Maybin; Will Venable; Abraham Almonte
RF: Matt Kemp; Rymer Liriano; Venable; Almonte
The outfield at Petco Park is ridiculously crowded. The only three players who are guaranteed spots on the Opening Day roster are the starting trio of Justin Upton, Wil Myers and Matt Kemp.
The Rotation
1. James Shields
2. Andrew Cashner
3. Tyson Ross
4. Ian Kennedy
5. Odrisamer Despaigne; Robbie Erlin; Brandon Morrow; Josh Johnson
There will be an array of starters angling to claim the final spot in the Padres' rotation. Odrisamer Despaigne is definitely a pitcher to watch out for. During his rookie season, the Cuban right-hander put up a 3.36 ERA in 16 starts.
The Bullpen
Closer: Joaquin Benoit
RH: Kevin Quackenbush; Dale Thayer; Nick Vincent; Shawn Kelley; Leonel Campos
LH: Alex Torres; Frank Garces
The Padres bullpen enjoyed all sorts of success in 2014, as the group ranked No. 1 in the NL with a 2.73 ERA, per MLB.com.
San Francisco Giants
20 of 30
The Position Players
C: Buster Posey; Andrew Susac; Hector Sanchez
1B: Brandon Belt; Posey; Travis Ishikawa
2B: Joe Panik; Joaquin Arias; Ehire Adrianza
SS: Brandon Crawford; Arias; Adrianza
3B: Casey McGehee; Arias; Matt Duffy
LF: Nori Aoki; Gregor Blanco; Ishikawa; Juan Perez
CF: Angel Pagan; Blanco; Perez
RF: Hunter Pence; Perez
There won't be much competition for spots at the San Francisco Giants' spring training. The starting lineup is already established, and the only bench role up for grabs is the backup catcher spot. That will be decided between Andrew Susac and Hector Sanchez.
The Rotation
1. Madison Bumgarner
2. Matt Cain
3. Tim Hudson
4. Jake Peavy
5. Tim Lincecum; Ryan Vogelsong; Yusmeiro Petit
The biggest dilemma that manager Bruce Bochy will face this spring is figuring out who will be the No. 5 starter. Considering how valuable of a weapon Yusmeiro Petit has been while pitching out of the bullpen, it seems likely that either Tim Lincecum or Ryan Vogelsong will win this spot.
The Bullpen
Closer: Santiago Casilla
RH: Sergio Romo; Jean Machi; Hunter Strickland; George Kontos; Erik Cordier
LH: Jeremy Affeldt; Javier Lopez
Even though it's an unheralded group, the bullpen has been a key part of the Giants' run of success over the past five years. Entering the season, the team's group of relievers ranks among the best in baseball.
Chicago Cubs
21 of 30
The Position Players
C: Miguel Montero; David Ross
1B: Anthony Rizzo; Mike Olt
2B: Javier Baez; Arismendy Alcantara; Tommy La Stella
SS: Starlin Castro; Baez
3B: Olt; Alcantara; Baez
LF: Chris Coghlan; Chris Denorfia; Junior Lake; Matt Szczur
CF: Dexter Fowler; Alcantara; Chris Denorfia; Szczur
RF: Jorge Soler; Denorfia
With Dexter Fowler patrolling center field and Javier Baez playing second, there's no everyday role for Arismendy Alcantara in 2015. However, the switch-hitter should still be a valuable contributor for the Cubs, as he's versatile enough to play all over the infield and outfield.
The Rotation
1. Jon Lester
2. Jake Arrieta
3. Jason Hammel
4. Travis Wood
5. Kyle Hendricks; Tsuyoshi Wada; Jacob Turner
Jon Lester generates all the buzz, but there's a lot to like about this rotation aside from the lefty ace. Jake Arrieta turned in a highly encouraging campaign in 2014, as he posted a 2.53 ERA in 25 starts.
The Bullpen
Closer: Hector Rondon
RH: Pedro Strop; Neil Ramirez; Justin Grimm; Jason Motte; Blake Parker; Edwin Jackson; Brian Schlitter
LH: Felix Doubront; Zac Rosscup; Drake Britton
The Cubs have all sorts of right-handed power arms, but the relief corps is light when it comes to left-handed options.
Cincinnati Reds
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The Position Players
C: Devin Mesoraco; Brayan Pena
1B: Joey Votto; Pena
2B: Brandon Phillips; Skip Schumaker
SS: Zack Cozart; Eugenio Suarez; Kris Negron
3B: Todd Frazier; Suarez; Negron
LF: Marlon Byrd; Schumaker; Jason Bourgeois; Negron
CF: Billy Hamilton; Schumaker; Bourgeois; Negron
RF: Jay Bruce; Schumaker; Bourgeois; Negron
If the team can stay healthy unlike a season ago, the Cincinnati Reds have the bats to score a lot of runs in 2015.
The Rotation
1. Johnny Cueto
2. Mike Leake
3. Homer Bailey
4. Tony Cingrani
5. Anthony DeSclafani; Dave Holmberg; Raisel Iglesias
After joining the Reds on a seven-year, $32 million deal last summer, Raisel Iglesias is a dark-horse contender to win a job in the club's starting rotation.
The Bullpen
Closer: Aroldis Chapman
RH: Sam LeCure; Burke Badenhop; Pedro Villarreal; Jumbo Diaz; J.J. Hoover; Daniel Corcino; Carlos Contreras
LH: Manny Parra; Sean Marshall; Ryan Dennick
If this bullpen can manage to hand a lead to Aroldis Chapman, it will pretty much be lights-out. Last year, the Cuban posted a remarkable 17.7 K/9 ratio.
Milwaukee Brewers
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The Position Players
C: Jonathan Lucroy; Martin Maldonado
1B: Adam Lind; Lucroy
2B: Scooter Gennett; Luis Sardinas; Elian Herrera
SS: Jean Segura; Sardinas; Herrera
3B: Aramis Ramirez; Herrera; Luis Jimenez
LF: Khris Davis; Gerardo Parra; Herrera; Logan Schafer
CF: Carlos Gomez; Parra; Herrera; Schafer
RF: Ryan Braun; Parra; Herrera; Schafer
This depth chart offers a lot of familiar faces from the team that endured an epic slump in the second half of the 2014 season. The most notable new additions are first baseman Adam Lind and middle infielder Luis Sardinas.
The Rotation
1. Kyle Lohse
2. Matt Garza
3. Wily Peralta
4. Mike Fiers
5. Jimmy Nelson
Based on how the roster is currently constructed, the Brewers won't be trotting out a single lefty starter.
The Bullpen
Closer: Jonathan Broxton
RH: Jeremy Jeffress; Brandon Kintzler; Tyler Thornburg; Jim Henderson; Michael Blazek; David Goforth
LH: Will Smith; Neal Cotts
Jonathan Broxton doesn't exactly inspire much confidence in the ninth inning. In the first half of 2014, the right-hander put up a 1.40 ERA. However, that mark jumped to 3.86 in 28 games after the All-Star break.
Pittsburgh Pirates
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The Position Players
C: Francisco Cervelli; Chris Stewart; Tony Sanchez
1B: Pedro Alvarez; Corey Hart; Andrew Lambo
2B: Neil Walker; Jung-ho Kang; Justin Sellers; Sean Rodriguez
SS: Jordy Mercer; Kang; Sellers; Rodriguez
3B: Josh Harrison; Alvarez; Rodriguez
LF: Starling Marte; Harrison; Lambo
CF: Andrew McCutchen; Marte
RF: Gregory Polanco; Lambo; Hart
There are no obvious holes in the Pittsburgh Pirates' starting lineup. Plus, the NL squad has Jung-ho Kang to provide cover all around the infield.
The Rotation
1. Francisco Liriano
2. Gerrit Cole
3. Vance Worley
4. A.J. Burnett
5. Jeff Locke
Between Francisco Liriano and Gerrit Cole, there's no wrong choice when it comes to picking the Pirates' No. 1 starter.
The Bullpen
Closer: Mark Melancon
RH: Jared Hughes; Stolmy Pimentel; John Holdzkom; Radhames Liz; Casey Sadler; Rob Scahill
LH: Tony Watson; Antonio Bastardo; Bobby LaFromboise
Last season, the trio of Mark Melancon, Tony Watson and Jared Hughes all checked in with ERAs south of 2.00.
St. Louis Cardinals
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The Position Players
C: Yadier Molina; Tony Cruz
1B: Matt Adams; Mark Reynolds; Xavier Scruggs
2B: Kolten Wong; Pete Kozma; Ty Kelly
SS: Jhonny Peralta; Kozma; Dean Anna
3B: Matt Carpenter; Reynolds; Kelly
LF: Matt Holliday; Randal Grichuk
CF: Jon Jay; Peter Bourjos; Tommy Pham
RF: Jason Heyward; Grichuk
When the St. Louis Cardinals begin spring training, the only jobs to be won will be reserve roles because there simply aren't any starting spots up for grabs.
The Rotation
1. Adam Wainwright
2. Lance Lynn
3. Michael Wacha
4. John Lackey
5. Carlos Martinez; Marco Gonzales
2015 could finally be the year that Carlos Martinez starts full time in the big leagues. The right-hander pitched almost exclusively as a starter in the minors and posted a 2.56 ERA in parts of five seasons.
The Bullpen
Closer: Trevor Rosenthal
RH: Seth Maness; Jordan Walden; Matt Belisle; Carlos Villanueva; Sam Tuivailala
LH: Kevin Siegrist; Randy Choate; Sam Freeman; Nick Greenwood
The Cardinals bullpen was mediocre in 2014, ranking No. 17 in baseball in ERA, per MLB.com. This offseason, the club has added Jordan Walden, but it's also lost Pat Neshek, who was one of St. Louis' most consistent arms.
Atlanta Braves
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The Position Players
C: Christian Bethancourt; A.J. Pierzynski
1B: Freddie Freeman; Chris Johnson
2B: Alberto Callaspo; Phil Gosselin; Jose Peraza
SS: Andrelton Simmons; Gosselin; Elmer Reyes
3B: C. Johnson; Callaspo; Kelly Johnson; Jace Peterson
LF: Jonny Gomes; Zoilo Almonte; Todd Cunningham; Dian Toscano
CF: B.J. Upton; Cunningham; Eury Perez
RF: Nick Markakis; Almonte; Toscano
The Atlanta Braves still have some cornerstone players in Freddie Freeman and Andrelton Simmons, but there are also some serious weak spots around the diamond. Second base, left field and center field are at the top of that list.
The Rotation
1. Julio Teheran
2. Alex Wood
3. Shelby Miller
4. Mike Minor
5. Eric Stults; Mike Foltynewicz; Wandy Rodriguez; Manny Banuelos
The combination of Julio Teheran and Alex Wood provides the Braves an impressive one-two punch. Just what kind of production the team will get out of the rest of the rotation remains to be seen.
The Bullpen
Closer: Craig Kimbrel
RH: Jason Grilli; Arodys Vizcaino; Jim Johnson; Jose Veras; Michael Kohn
LH: James Russell; Josh Outman; Luis Avilan
In the offseason, the Braves invested in a couple of intriguing buy-low candidates in Jim Johnson and Jose Veras. This spring, the club will find out if ether reliever offers a return.
Miami Marlins
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The Position Players
C: Jarrod Saltalamacchia; Jeff Mathis
1B: Michael Morse; Jeff Baker; Justin Bour
2B: Dee Gordon; Donovan Solano; Derek Dietrich
SS: Adeiny Hechavarria; Solano; Miguel Rojas
3B: Martin Prado; Rojas
LF: Christian Yelich; Ichiro Suzuki
CF: Marcell Ozuna; Suzuki
RF: Giancarlo Stanton; Suzuki
Thanks to the additions of Martin Prado and Dee Gordon, the Miami Marlins have solidified the team's infield situation heading into the 2015 season.
The Rotation
1. Jose Fernandez (DL)
2. Henderson Alvarez
3. Mat Latos
4. Dan Haren
5. Jarred Cosart; Tom Koehler; Brad Hand
Henderson Alvarez, who was an All-Star last season, owns the distinction of staff ace until Jose Fernandez returns early in the summer.
The Bullpen
Closer: Steve Cishek
RH: A.J. Ramos; Bryan Morris; David Phelps; Aaron Crow; Carter Capps; Preston Claiborne; Andre Rienzo; Sam Dyson
LH: Mike Dunn; Andrew McKirahan
This bullpen will provide the Fish with a ton of quality frames and even more punchouts.
New York Mets
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The Position Players
C: Travis d'Arnaud; Anthony Recker
1B: Lucas Duda; Michael Cuddyer; Eric Campbell
2B: Daniel Murphy; Ruben Tejada; Dilson Herrera
SS: Wilmer Flores; Tejada
3B: David Wright; Campbell; Flores
LF: Curtis Granderson; John Mayberry Jr.; Kirk Nieuwenhuis
CF: Juan Lagares; Nieuwenhuis; Matt den Dekker
RF: Cuddyer; Granderson; Mayberry; Nieuwenhuis
There doesn't appear to be room on the Opening Day roster for top prospect Dilson Herrera. However, considering that Daniel Murphy is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, it's only a matter of time before Herrera makes his mark at Citi Field.
The Rotation
1. Jake deGrom
2. Matt Harvey
3. Jon Niese
4. Zack Wheeler
5. Bartolo Colon; Dillon Gee
Last year, Dillon Gee was the Mets' Opening Day starter. This year, there doesn't appear to be a spot for him in the rotation.
The Bullpen
Closer: Jenrry Mejia
RH: Jeurys Familia; Vic Black; Carlos Torres; Erik Goeddel; Rafael Montero
LH: Josh Edgin; Sean Gilmartin; Dario Alvarez
Along with the standout rotation, it's this talented bullpen that could help power the Mets to a dark-horse October run.
Philadelphia Phillies
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The Position Players
C: Carlos Ruiz; Cameron Rupp
1B: Ryan Howard; Darin Ruf
2B: Chase Utley; Cesar Hernandez
SS: Freddy Galvis; Hernandez
3B: Cody Asche; Maikel Franco
LF: Grady Sizemore; Ruf; Odubel Herrera
CF: Ben Revere; Jordan Danks; Herrera
RF: Domonic Brown; Danks
This is as weak a group of position players as any in baseball. It could get even worse if GM Ruben Amaro Jr. starts spinning off pieces as part of a much-needed rebuilding effort.
The Rotation
1. Cole Hamels
2. Cliff Lee
3. Aaron Harang
4. Jerome Williams
5. David Buchanan; Chad Billingsley; Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez
The team's top two starters—Cole Hamels and Cliff Lee—are also the squad's two most valuable trade chips.
The Bullpen
Closer: Jonathan Papelbon
RH: Ken Giles; Justin De Fratus; Phillippe Aumont; Hector Neris; Luis Garcia
LH: Jake Diekman; Mario Hollands
Led by Jonathan Papelbon and Ken Giles, the bullpen is by far the best part of this Phillies team, which finished 23 games out of first place in 2014.
Washington Nationals
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The Position Players
C: Wilson Ramos; Jose Lobaton
1B: Ryan Zimmerman; Kevin Frandsen
2B: Yunel Escobar; Danny Espinosa
SS: Ian Desmond; Escobar
3B: Anthony Rendon; Frandsen
LF: Jayson Werth; Nate McLouth; Frandsen
CF: Denard Span; Bryce Harper
RF: Harper; McLouth; Frandsen
The only potential change to this depth chart between now and Opening Day revolves around the health of Jayson Werth's right shoulder. The veteran had surgery on his shoulder back in the beginning of January, and as a result his availability for the start of the season is in jeopardy.
The Rotation
1. Max Scherzer
2. Stephen Strasburg
3. Jordan Zimmermann
4. Doug Fister
5. Gio Gonzalez
The Nats rotation is so good that there isn't room for Tanner Roark, even though the right-hander turned in a 2.85 ERA in 2014.
The Bullpen
Closer: Drew Storen
RH: Aaron Barrett; Tanner Roark; Craig Stammen; Casey Janssen; Blake Treinen
LH: Jerry Blevins; Matt Thornton; Xavier Cedeno
This bullpen took a hit after the Nats shipped Tyler Clippard to the Oakland Athletics. However, it definitely helps to add Tanner Roark to the mix. Plus, Casey Janssen represents an intriguing reclamation project.
Note: All stats courtesy of Baseball-Reference.com and MLB.com. All salary information courtesy of Cot's Baseball Contracts on BaseballProspectus.com.
If you want to talk baseball, find me on Twitter @KarlBuscheck.
