Updated Spring Training Predictions for All 30 MLB Teams' Final 25-Man Rosters

Spring training has reached that special point where it feels like there's still an eternity of exhibition games left, and yet Opening Day (April 2) is right around the corner.

What better time to get caught up on how teams' rosters are shaping up?

Ahead are 25-man roster predictions for all 30 MLB teams. On balance, they don't look too different from what the projections were going into spring training. But things like injuries and performances must be accounted for, so there are a few changes to consider.

We'll go in alphabetical order by city, and please note that all stats are current through play on Tuesday, March 7.

Arizona Diamondbacks

Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images

Shelby Miller's got this.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Chris Iannetta	C Jeff Mathis
1B Paul Goldschmidt	C/OF Chris Herrmann
2B Brandon Drury	INF Daniel Descalso
3B Jake Lamb	INF Chris Owings
SS Nick Ahmed	OF Jeremy Hazelbaker
LF Yasmany Tomas
CF A.J. Pollock
RF David Peralta

With a solid .772 OPS this spring, Chris Owings is making a push to play either second base or shortstop. But since he still fits the Diamondbacks best as a utility player off the bench, Nick Ahmed's defensive ability and Brandon Drury's offensive upside give them the edge for now.

Elsewhere, Chris Herrmann's ability to play the outfield is as good an excuse as any for the Diamondbacks to carry three catchers. The last spot on the bench is the big question. Jeremy Hazelbaker is the de facto answer until Gregor Blanco or Socrates Brito start making a stronger push.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Zack Greinke	RHP Fernando Rodney
LHP Robbie Ray	RHP Randall Delgado
RHP Taijuan Walker	RHP Jake Barrett
RHP Shelby Miller	LHP Andrew Chafin
LHP Patrick Corbin	RHP Enrique Burgos
	RHP Silvino Bracho
	RHP Zack Godley

Shelby Miller has risen to the challenge of proving himself this spring. He's dominated in two of his three starts, and he continued to show overpowering stuff in the third. This is bad news for Archie Bradley, who has struggled in two of his three outings.

Even with the assumption that Jake Barrett's shoulder will be good to go in time for Opening Day, the Diamondbacks bullpen is more of a puzzle. For now, Andrew Chafin, Enrique Burgos and Silvino Bracho are on track to ride strong springs to middle relief roles. And despite some iffy spring numbers, Zack Godley looks like a good fit as the long man.

Atlanta Braves

Mark Cunningham/Getty Images

Here comes Dansby Swanson's first full MLB season.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Tyler Flowers	C Kurt Suzuki
1B Freddie Freeman	INF/OF Jace Peterson
2B Brandon Phillips	INF/OF Chase d'Arnaud
3B Adonis Garcia	INF/OF Emilio Bonifacio
SS Dansby Swanson
LF Matt Kemp
CF Ender Inciarte
RF Nick Markakis

The Braves' starting lineup looked set going into the spring, and it hasn't been shaken up by any injuries. That leaves just the bench for manager Brian Snitker to figure out.

Mark Bowman of MLB.com reported in January that the Braves will be using just a four-man bench. That places an even greater emphasis on versatility. Sean Rodriguez's injury is a tough break in this regard.

Fortunately, Jace Peterson and Chase d'Arnaud (who's out of options) can play both the infield and the outfield. So can non-roster invitee Emilio Bonifacio, who's helping his cause with a .922 OPS this spring.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Julio Teheran	RHP Jim Johnson
RHP Bartolo Colon	RHP Arodys Vizcaino
RHP R.A. Dickey	RHP Mauricio Cabrera
LHP Jaime Garcia	LHP Ian Krol
RHP Mike Foltynewicz	RHP Chaz Roe
	RHP Jose Ramirez
	LHP Paco Rodriguez
	RHP Josh Collmenter

It's a crowded competition for the last spot in Atlanta's rotation, but Mike Foltynewicz should have the edge. He's a big-armed youngster who showed some promise last year and who isn't fumbling his opportunity this spring.

In the bullpen, being out of options should work in favor of Ian Krol, Jose Ramirez and Chaz Roe. Paco Rodriguez can reemerge as a strong lefty specialist now that he's healthy again. Josh Collmenter is a natural fit as a long man.

Baltimore Orioles

Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Mark Trumbo is back in the fold.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Welington Castillo	C Caleb Joseph
1B Chris Davis	INF/OF Ryan Flaherty
2B Jonathan Schoop	OF Joey Rickard
3B Manny Machado	INF/OF Aneury Tavarez
SS J.J. Hardy
LF Hyun Soo Kim
CF Adam Jones
RF Seth Smith
DH Mark Trumbo

The big question in Baltimore's starting lineup has to do with J.J. Hardy's back. With Jon Meoli of the Baltimore Sun reporting that the shortstop is doing baseball activities, optimism is warranted for now.

Meanwhile, Trey Mancini's absence from this bench projection may raise some eyebrows. His problem is his lack of versatility. Rather than roll with that and use him as a pinch-hitter, the Orioles would be better served going with Aneury Tavarez's versatile glove and sending Mancini to the minors for regular at-bats.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Kevin Gausman	LHP Zach Britton
LHP Wade Miley	RHP Brad Brach
RHP Dylan Bundy	RHP Darren O'Day
RHP Ubaldo Jimenez	RHP Mychal Givens
RHP Mike Wright	LHP Donnie Hart
	RHP Logan Verrett
	LHP Vidal Nuno

After having a platelet-rich plasma treatment on his shoulder, Chris Tillman likely won't be ready to go by Opening Day. That creates an opening for Mike Wright, spot starter extraordinaire, at the back end of Baltimore's rotation.

Zach Britton's oblique injury is another health matter for the Orioles to worry about. But this one seems less serious, so it's only the bottom of the depth chart that needs sorting.

For that, the out-of-options Oliver Drake isn't helping his cause with his terrible spring. That's an opening for Logan Verrett to nab a middle relief role, with Vidal Nuno sliding in as the long man.

Boston Red Sox

Michael Ivins/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images

Christian Vazquez is looking good behind the plate.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Sandy Leon	C Christian Vazquez
1B Mitch Moreland	INF/OF Brock Holt
2B Dustin Pedroia	OF Chris Young
3B Pablo Sandoval	INF Josh Rutledge
SS Xander Bogaerts
LF Andrew Benintendi
CF Jackie Bradley Jr.
RF Mookie Betts
DH Hanley Ramirez

With a .333 average in seven games, Pablo Sandoval is so far making good on his chance to reclaim his job at third base this spring. That leaves just the bench for the Red Sox to get squared away.

On that front, Christian Vazquez is securing at least a backup catcher role with his strong showing on both sides of the ball. And while Deven Marrero is making a strong push for the final spot on the bench, he has an option left. Josh Rutledge does not.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Chris Sale	RHP Craig Kimbrel
RHP Rick Porcello	RHP Tyler Thornburg
LHP David Price	RHP Joe Kelly
RHP Steven Wright	LHP Robbie Ross Jr.
LHP Drew Pomeranz	RHP Matt Barnes
	RHP Heath Hembree
	LHP Fernando Abad

With David Price's elbow still intact for now, the Red Sox's projected starting rotation looks good. But with health question marks now hanging over Price, Steven Wright and Drew Pomeranz, Eduardo Rodriguez shouldn't give up hope just yet.

Going into spring training, Heath Hembree (who's out of options) and Fernando Abad didn't seem to have the strongest holds on the last two bullpen spots. But with the two of them pitching well, Robby Scott and Brandon Workman remain on the outside looking in.

Chicago Cubs

Joshua Blanchard/Getty Images

The defending champs don't have many question marks on their roster.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Willson Contreras	C Miguel Montero
1B Anthony Rizzo	INF Javier Baez
2B Ben Zobrist	OF Jon Jay
3B Kris Bryant	OF Matt Szczur
SS Addison Russell
LF Kyle Schwarber
CF Albert Almora
RF Jason Heyward

Surprise, surprise. The world champions have a starting lineup that's pretty much good to go. Joe Maddon only needs to figure out who will be on his bench on Opening Day.

For that, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com hinted last month that Maddon will only need four players. Miguel Montero, Javier Baez and Jon Jay are definitely in, leaving Matt Szczur and Tommy La Stella to battle for the last spot. Szczur's right-handed bat and .977 OPS this spring give him the advantage.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Jon Lester	RHP Wade Davis
RHP Jake Arrieta	RHP Hector Rondon
RHP Kyle Hendricks	RHP Pedro Strop
RHP John Lackey	RHP Koji Uehara
LHP Brett Anderson	RHP Carl Edwards Jr.
	RHP Justin Grimm
	LHP Brian Duensing
	LHP Mike Montgomery

The injury bug hasn't yet caught up to Brett Anderson. That puts him on track for the No. 5 spot in the rotation, and Mike Montgomery on track for the swingman role in the bullpen.

That leaves just one spot in Chicago's pen up for grabs. Alongside Rob Zastryzny and Caleb Smith, Brian Duensing is one of three lefties gunning for it. He's thus far helping his cause with five strong frames in spring training.

Chicago White Sox

Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images

Jose Abreu is one of few sure things on the White Sox's roster.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Derek Norris	C Geovany Soto
1B Jose Abreu	INF Yolmer Sanchez
2B Tyler Saladino	OF Peter Bourjos
SS Tim Anderson	OF Cody Asche
3B Todd Frazier
LF Melky Cabrera
CF Charlie Tilson
RF Avisail Garcia
DH Matt Davidson

The White Sox entered spring training with a whole bunch of questions to answer, and created yet another when they released Brett Lawrie. Let's answer them one by one:

• Catcher: The White Sox basically don't have an everyday answer at catcher, so it's easy to imagine them pouncing on Derek Norris if the Washington Nationals release him. He would be a nice piece of trade bait if he were to rebound from a bad 2016.
• Second Base: Tyler Saladino and Yolmer Sanchez (out of options) should both make the final roster, but Saladino's strong finish to 2016 and hot start this spring give him the edge to start.
• Designated Hitter: The out-of-options Matt Davidson isn't seizing the day this spring, but is still likely to get a shot to be the club's regular DH.
• Bench: Soto and Sanchez are in, and Peter Bourjos and Cody Asche are good fits to round things out. Bourjos is a good fourth outfielder, and Asche can platoon with Davidson and Avisail Garcia.

That's it for now, but stay tuned. The rebuilding White Sox have much to decide in the next few weeks.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Jose Quintana	RHP David Robertson
LHP Carlos Rodon	RHP Nate Jones
RHP James Shields	RHP Zach Putnam
LHP Derek Holland	RHP Jake Petricka
RHP Miguel Gonzalez	LHP Dan Jennings
	LHP Giovanni Soto
	RHP Anthony Swarzak

Assuming Jose Quintana isn't traded, Carlos Rodon's readiness is the only unknown in Chicago's rotation. For that, Dan Hayes of CSN Chicago reports the White Sox have a solid plan mapped out.

Elsewhere, the last two spots in the bullpen look up for grabs. Giovanni Soto is a good fit to be a second left-hander alongside Dan Jennings. Anthony Swarzak, a non-roster invitee, is a natural fit as a long man.

Cincinnati Reds

Jon Durr/Getty Images

Jose Peraza is getting his shot to play every day.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Devin Mesoraco	C Tucker Barnhart
1B Joey Votto	C Stuart Turner
2B Jose Peraza	INF/OF Arismendy Alcantara
3B Eugenio Suarez	OF Desmond Jennings
SS Zack Cozart	OF Ryan Raburn
LF Adam Duvall
CF Billy Hamilton
RF Scott Schebler

After playing in just 39 games over the last two seasons, Devin Mesoraco needs to show he's healthy if he wants to open the 2017 season behind the plate.

Although the Reds aren't rushing anything in that regard, it can be taken as a good sign that the 28-year-old has been making steady progress. All the same, Tucker Barnhart should be ready to see plenty of action early on this season, and Stuart Turner should be carried as a third catcher just in case.

Elsewhere on the Reds bench, Desmond Jennings will make it as a fourth outfielder and Ryan Raburn will make it as a platoon partner for Scott Schebler. Arismendy Alcantara brings versatility to the table.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Brandon Finnegan	RHP Raisel Iglesies
RHP Scott Feldman	RHP Michael Lorenzen
RHP Tim Adleman	RHP Drew Storen
LHP Cody Reed	LHP Tony Cingrani
RHP Robert Stephenson	RHP Blake Wood
	LHP Wandy Peralta
	RHP Sal Romano

According to Zach Buchanan of the Cincinnati Enquirer, it's unlikely that Anthony DeSclafani's elbow will be good to go by Opening Day. Rather than pick one or the other, that's an excuse for the Reds to open the season with youngsters Cody Reed and Robert Stephenson in their rotation.

It's hard to even look at the Reds bullpen after what it did last year, but the top four spots are set. Blake Wood, who's out of options, is a good bet for one of the other spots. Wandy Peralta and Sal Romano, a fine swingman candidate, are pushing for the last two.

Cleveland Indians

Jason Miller/Getty Images

The big question is Michael Brantley's health.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Yan Gomez	C Roberto Perez
1B Carlos Santana	OF Brandon Guyer
2B Jason Kipnis	OF Abraham Almonte
3B Jose Ramirez	INF/OF Erik Gonzalez
SS Francisco Lindor
LF Michael Brantley
CF Tyler Naquin
RF Lonnie Chisenhall
DH Edwin Encarnacion

In light of his ongoing shoulder issues, we have to ask: Will Michael Brantley be ready for Opening Day?

"Now, I'm starting to get excited for him, because he's getting closer," manager Terry Francona said this week, via MLB.com's Jordan Bastian. "But, I think you have to temper it, just because, one, what he went through last year and when he got into games. And, two, I just think it's fair to him."

Brantley gets a reluctant benefit of the doubt for now, which leaves only questions about Cleveland's bench to answer. For those, Abraham Almonte looks like a good fourth outfielder choice, and Erik Gonzalez is the utility infielder the club needs.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Corey Kluber	RHP Cody Allen
RHP Carlos Carrasco	LHP Andrew Miller
RHP Danny Salazar	RHP Bryan Shaw
RHP Trevor Bauer	LHP Boone Logan
RHP Josh Tomlin	RHP Dan Otero
	RHP Shawn Armstrong
	RHP Zach McAllister

As long as all the key characters stay healthy, the Indians only have one bullpen spot to figure out.

Shawn Armstrong has a strong case to emerge victorious. He's been a big-time strikeout pitcher in the minors with a career 12.2 K/9. And so far this spring, he's whiffed four batters and allowed only one hit in three innings.

Colorado Rockies

Chris Coduto/Getty Images

Newcomer Ian Desmond's move to first base is a story to watch.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Tony Wolters	C Tom Murphy
1B Ian Desmond	INF/OF Mark Reynolds
2B DJ LeMahieu	INF/OF Alexi Amarista
3B Nolan Arenado	OF Chris Denorfia
SS Trevor Story
LF Gerardo Parra
CF Charlie Blackmon
RF Carlos Gonzalez

One of the big storylines going into Rockies camp was the impending left field competition between Gerardo Parra and David Dahl. But now that Dahl is hurt for the foreseeable future, so much for that.

The Rockies bench, meanwhile, remains largely unsettled—at least until they tab Alexi Amarista for his versatility, Mark Reynolds as Ian Desmond insurance and Chris Denorfia as a right-handed complement for their lefty-hitting outfield.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Jon Gray	RHP Greg Holland
RHP Chad Bettis	RHP Adam Ottavino
LHP Tyler Anderson	LHP Jake McGee
RHP Tyler Chatwood	LHP Mike Dunn
RHP Jeff Hoffman	RHP Jason Motte
	RHP Chad Qualls
	LHP Chris Rusin
	RHP Jordan Lyles

Prospects Jeff Hoffman and German Marquez are vying for the final spot in Colorado's starting rotation. With a 0.00 ERA through two starts this spring, Hoffman has a leg up on Marquez and his 10.80 ERA.

With them being the Rockies and everything, the real question here is how much bullpen depth they want to take into the season. A little extra is a good idea, so an eight-man pen is a safe assumption.

The top four spots are all set. After those, Jason Motte and Chad Qualls should get the nod due to their seniority. Chris Rusin and Jordan Lyles would be two solid swingmen to round things out.

Detroit Tigers

Mark Cunningham/Getty Images

This Miguel Cabrera guy could have a shot at making the team.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C James McCann	C Alex Avila
1B Miguel Cabrera	OF Tyler Collins
2B Ian Kinsler	INF/OF Andrew Romine
3B Nick Castellanos	INF Dixon Machado
SS Jose Iglesias
LF Justin Upton
CF Mikie Mahtook
RF J.D. Martinez
DH Victor Martinez

Provided that Jose Iglesias recovers from a collision that knocked him out of Tuesday's action, center field is the only lineup spot the Tigers need to figure out this spring.

For that, it can't be ignored that JaCoby Jones is hitting well, while Mikie Mahtook and Tyler Collins have been largely invisible. But it's still likely that Jones will begin the year in the minors, leaving Mahtook and Collins to platoon until he's ready.

The other question has to do with the final spot on the bench. Will it go to the out-of-options Steven Moya or the out-of-options Dixon Machado? Since the latter fits the club's needs better, probably Machado.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Justin Verlander	RHP Francisco Rodriguez
RHP Michael Fulmer	LHP Justin Wilson
RHP Jordan Zimmermann	RHP Bruce Rondon
RHP Anibal Sanchez	RHP Alex Wilson
LHP Daniel Norris	RHP Mark Lowe
	LHP Kyle Ryan
	RHP Mike Pelfrey

Provided he stays healthy, Anibal Sanchez's contract should ensure he gets one of the final two spots in Detroit's rotation. Mike Pelfrey probably doesn't have that luxury, and he is further hurting his cause by struggling while Daniel Norris is pitching well.

If Pelfrey takes a long relief role in the bullpen, there would be just two middle relief slots to fill. That picture is a bit of a mess at the moment, so let's shrug our shoulders and give Mark Lowe and Kyle Ryan the nod as de facto favorites.

Houston Astros

Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

Carlos Beltran is a new yet familiar face in Astros camp.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Brian McCann	C Evan Gattis
1B Yulieski Gurriel	OF Jake Marisnick
2B Jose Altuve	INF/OF Marwin Gonzalez
3B Alex Bregman	INF/OF Tony Kemp
SS Carlos Correa
LF Nori Aoki
CF George Springer
RF Josh Reddick
DH Carlos Beltran

The Astros brought a ton of depth to spring training this year, so it's no wonder they only have their final bench spot to figure out.

There are plenty of horses in that race, but Tony Kemp is the guy in the best position to win it. He has a left-handed bat to offer, and it's showing well with an .849 OPS this spring. He can also play the outfield in addition to second base.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Dallas Keuchel	RHP Ken Giles
RHP Collin McHugh	RHP Luke Gregerson
RHP Lance McCullers	RHP Will Harris
RHP Charlie Morton	LHP Tony Sipp
RHP Mike Fiers	RHP Michael Feliz
	RHP Jandel Gustave
	RHP Chris Devenski

It's not a great look that all of Dallas Keuchel, Collin McHugh and Lance McCullers haven't pitched in a game this spring. But for now, there don't seem to be any reasons to doubt their availability for Opening Day.

This leaves just one bullpen spot for the Astros to figure out. Jandel Gustave is a good fit for it. He showed his high-octane fastball in the majors this spring and has struck out five and allowed one hit in three scoreless appearances this spring.

Kansas City Royals

Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Peter O'Brien is making noise in Royals camp.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Salvador Perez	C Drew Butera
1B Eric Hosmer	INF Christian Colon
2B Whit Merrifield	OF Paulo Orlando
3B Mike Moustakas	OF/DH Peter O'Brien
SS Alcides Escobar
LF Alex Gordon
CF Lorenzo Cain
RF Jorge Soler
DH Brandon Moss

The competition for the Royals' starting second base gig is a bit of a dud. Neither Whit Merrifield nor Christian Colon is off to a strong start this spring. And since Merrifield is the incumbent and Colon is out of options, both are likely to make the roster anyway.

The real intrigue is over who takes the final bench spot. Cheslor Cuthbert is without options, but Peter O'Brien has a 1.002 spring OPS. He looks like the better choice to platoon with Brandon Moss.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Danny Duffy	RHP Kelvin Herrera
RHP Ian Kennedy	RHP Joakim Soria
LHP Jason Vargas	LHP Matt Strahm
RHP Jason Hammel	LHP Mike Minor
LHP Travis Wood	RHP Peter Moylan
	RHP Josh Staumont
	RHP Chris Young

There's a good competition going on between Travis Wood, Nate Karns, Matt Strahm and Chris Young for the final rotation spot. But as long as things are equal, the Royals would probably prefer their $12 million investment in Wood be put to use in the rotation.

That would likely equal tough luck for Karns, who has a minor league option left. Young could be used as a long man, and Strahm can go back to the setup role he excelled at last year.

Elsewhere, Mike Minor and Peter Moylan are pitching like two guys who deserve spots. Josh Staumont's disadvantage is that he's not on the roster. His advantage is a triple-digits fastball.

Los Angeles Angels

Rob Tringali/Getty Images

Mike Trout should have a decent chance of cracking the Angels' Opening Day roster.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Martin Maldonado	C Carlos Perez
1B Luis Valbuena	1B/DH C.J. Cron
2B Danny Espinosa	INF Cliff Pennington
3B Yunel Escobar	OF Ben Revere
SS Andrelton Simmons
LF Cameron Maybin
CF Mike Trout
RF Kole Calhoun
DH Albert Pujols

The big unknown in Angels camp is whether Albert Pujols will be ready for Opening Day after having offseason foot surgery. However, things are looking up for the veteran slugger.

"Albert ran great," manager Mike Scioscia said after Pujols ran the bases on Monday, via MLB.com's Maria Guardado. "He came out of it great, really ran well. He's approaching readiness to play in games."

Otherwise, there's not much to see here. The one spot that could be up for grabs is the utility infielder slot, but Cliff Pennington is practically synonymous with the term "utility infielder."

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Garrett Richards	RHP Cam Bedrosian
RHP Matt Shoemaker	RHP Andrew Bailey
LHP Tyler Skaggs	RHP JC Ramirez
RHP Ricky Nolasco	LHP Jose Alvarez
RHP Jesse Chavez	RHP Mike Morin
	RHP Kirby Yates
	RHP Yusmeiro Petit

Although the last spot in the Angels starting rotation isn't settled, Jesse Chavez came into camp as the favorite and hasn't yet lost his grasp on the opportunity.

Rather, the big question is in the bullpen, where an opening has appeared thanks to Huston Street's latest injury.

That could work out well for Kirby Yates, who's out of options and who has dominated in four appearances this spring. And with five scoreless innings to his name, Yusmeiro Petit is emerging as a solution for the swingman role that he's handled well in the past.

Los Angeles Dodgers

Tim Warner/Getty Images

Yasiel Puig is part of a crowded competition to crack the Dodgers outfield.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Yasmani Grandal	C Austin Barnes
1B Adrian Gonzalez	INF Chase Utley
2B Logan Forsythe	INF/OF Enrique Hernandez
3B Justin Turner	OF Andre Ethier
SS Corey Seager	OF Franklin Gutierrez
LF Andrew Toles
CF Joc Pederson
RF Yasiel Puig

Let's cut right to the chase: How are the Dodgers going to resolve their outfield logjam?

With a new batting stance that's produced an .857 OPS in six spring games, Yasiel Puig clearly wants the right field gig. If he keeps that up, it'll be a choice between Andrew Toles, Andre Ethier, Franklin Gutierrez, Trayce Thompson and Scott Van Slyke for three other spots.

Since he's still recovering from back problems, Thompson is the odd man out for now. That leaves Van Slyke and Gutierrez to battle to be Joc Pederson's platoon partner. Since Van Slyke has an option left, it'll likely be Gutierrez breaking camp with Toles and Ethier.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Clayton Kershaw	RHP Kenley Jansen
LHP Rich Hill	RHP Pedro Baez
RHP Kenta Maeda	RHP Sergio Romo
LHP Julio Urias	LHP Grant Dayton
LHP Scott Kazmir	RHP Chris Hatcher
	LHP Luis Avilan
	RHP Brandon McCarthy

The back end of the Dodgers rotation is a guessing game starring Scott Kazmir, Julio Urias, Brandon McCarthy, Hyun-Jin Ryu and Alex Wood. Urias is on track for one of the spots. Kazmir is probably the favorite for the other, but only as long as his hip doesn't act up again.

If so, it's easy to imagine McCarthy taking a long relief role in the bullpen. Elsewhere in the pen, Chris Hatcher and Luis Avilan are out of options. But keep an eye on Pedro Baez, whose hand is still hurting from being struck by a comebacker.

Miami Marlins

Joel Auerbach/Getty Images

Giancarlo Stanton headlines a Marlins roster that looks largely settled.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C J.T. Realmuto	C A.J. Ellis
1B Justin Bour	INF Miguel Rojas
2B Dee Gordon	INF/OF Derek Dietrich
3B Martin Prado	OF Ichiro Suzuki
SS Adeiny Hechavarria
LF Marcell Ozuna
CF Christian Yelich
RF Giancarlo Stanton

Miguel Rojas became a player to monitor on Tuesday, as he had to come out after being hit in the face by a throw. But with a 1.203 OPS, things have otherwise been going well for him this spring.

The only other thing worth discussing here is the four-man bench. It would be a case of the Marlins going against the National League norm, but it'll be necessary for them to take advantage of their considerable bullpen depth.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Wei-Yin Chen	RHP A.J. Ramos
RHP Edinson Volquez	RHP Brad Ziegler
LHP Adam Conley	RHP Kyle Barraclough
RHP Tom Koehler	RHP David Phelps
RHP Dan Straily	RHP Junichi Tazawa
	RHP Dustin McGowan
	RHP Jose Urena
	LHP Jeff Locke

Although Dan Straily is technically in a competition with Jeff Locke for the final spot in Miami's rotation, the fact that Locke has yet to pitch in a game makes Straily the de facto favorite.

Assuming Locke recovers, however, there will be a spot for him in the bullpen. And it would seem to be the only available spot, to boot. The Marlins are going to attempt to downplay a weak rotation with a deep bullpen this year, and they might actually have enough arms to pull it off.

Milwaukee Brewers

Norm Hall/Getty Images

Matt Garza is a hopeful for a rotation spot.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Jett Bandy	C Manny Pina
1B Eric Thames	INF Scooter Gennett
2B Jonathan Villar	INF/OF Hernan Perez
3B Travis Shaw	OF Kirk Nieuwenhuis
SS Orlando Arcia	1B Jesus Aguilar
LF Ryan Braun
CF Keon Broxton
RF Domingo Santana

The Brewers have three catchers to choose from in Jett Bandy, Manny Pina and Andrew Susac. Bandy and Pina have the advantage for now, as both are hitting well while Susac has struggled with a .503 OPS.

The Brewers look set elsewhere. They would surely prefer it if Eric Thames started hitting the way he did in Korea, but at least Jesus Aguilar is looking like a capable platoon partner with a 1.303 OPS this spring.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Junior Guerra	RHP Neftali Feliz
RHP Zach Davies	RHP Corey Knebel
RHP Jimmy Nelson	RHP Carlos Torres
RHP Matt Garza	LHP Brent Suter
RHP Wily Peralta	RHP Tyler Cravy
	RHP Damien Magnifico
	RHP Chase Anderson

The last two spots in Milwaukee's rotation are technically up for grabs, but Matt Garza and Wily Peralta should get them in the end. Garza has a $12.5 million salary and Peralta is out of options.

That would push Chase Anderson into a long relief role, which would take care of one available bullpen spot. With 10 scoreless appearances between them, Brent Suter, Tyler Cravy and Damien Magnifico are pushing for the others. But keep an eye on Taylor Jungmann and Joba Chamberlain as well.

Minnesota Twins

Mark Cunningham/Getty Images

All eyes are once again on Twins youngsters Byron Buxton and Miguel Sano.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Jason Castro	C J.R. Murphy
1B Joe Mauer	INF/OF Eduardo Escobar
2B Brian Dozier	OF Robbie Grossman
3B Miguel Sano	INF/OF Danny Santana
SS Jorge Polanco
LF Eddie Rosario
CF Byron Buxton
RF Max Kepler
DH Kennys Vargas

There are no open spots in the Twins lineup, so this is all about their bench. J.R. Murphy is locked into one spot, leaving four out-of-options players to battle for the other three: Eduardo Escobar, Robbie Grossman, Ehire Adrianza and Danny Santana.

Escobar and Grossman should get theirs. It's a tougher call between Adrianza and Santana, but Santana's advantage is that he can play the outfield in addition to the infield. Expect that to be his saving grace.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Ervin Santana	RHP Brandon Kintzler
LHP Hector Santiago	RHP Ryan Pressly
RHP Kyle Gibson	RHP Matt Belisle
RHP Phil Highes	LHP Taylor Rogers
RHP Trevor May	RHP Michael Tonkin
	LHP Craig Breslow
	RHP Justin Haley

In the competition for the No. 5 spot in Minnesota's rotation, Jose Berrios carries the most intrigue due to his status as a former top prospect. But he could benefit from more time in the minors. Meanwhile, it's really now or never for Trevor May to show what he can do as a starter.

With Glen Perkins ticketed for the disabled list, there's plenty of space available in the bullpen. Michael Tonkin, who's out of options, flashed strikeout potential last year. Craig Breslow's new arm slot has worked for him this spring. Justin Haley looks like a good fit for long relief.

New York Mets

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Michael Conforto is trying to hit his way into the Mets lineup.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Travis d'Arnaud	C Rene Rivera
1B Lucas Duda	OF Juan Lagares
2B Neil Walker	OF Michael Conforto
3B Jose Reyes	INF Wilmer Flores
SS Asdrubal Cabrera	INF T.J. Rivera
LF Yoenis Cespedes
CF Curtis Granderson
RF Jay Bruce

David Wright's latest run-in with the injury bug opens the door not just for Jose Reyes to take over at third base, but for T.J. Rivera to grab a spot on the Mets bench.

And now for the big question: Has Michael Conforto hit his way into the starting lineup?

With a 1.162 OPS in eight games, he's certainly trying. But the Mets figure to give Jay Bruce, a nine-year major league veteran, a long leash before taking his right field gig away. With an .833 OPS through five games, he isn't testing its limits just yet.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Noah Syndergaard	RHP Addison Reed
RHP Jacob deGrom	RHP Fernando Salas
RHP Matt Harvey	LHP Jerry Blevins
LHP Steven Matz	RHP Hansel Robles
RHP Robert Gsellman	RHP Rafael Montero
	LHP Josh Edgin
	LHP Sean Gilmartin

The starting rotation picture comes with an obvious "health permitting" caveat. Otherwise, it's only the No. 5 spot that's up for grabs. It's a shame that the Mets can only choose one between Robert Gsellman and Seth Lugo. For now, Gsellman is holding on to the edge he entered camp with.

In the bullpen, it must be assumed that Jeurys Familia will be suspended at the start of the year. Rafael Montero is pitching like a man who wants his spot. In four appearances, he's struck out 10 batters and allowed only two hits in seven innings.

New York Yankees

Rich Schultz/Getty Images

Aaron Judge is looking like a man on a mission.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Gary Sanchez	C Austin Romine
1B Greg Bird	OF Aaron Hicks
2B Starlin Castro	1B/DH Chris Carter
3B Chase Headley	INF Ronald Torreyes
SS Didi Gregorius
LF Brett Gardner
CF Jacoby Ellsbury
RF Aaron Judge
DH Matt Holliday

One of the unknowns at the start of Yankees camp was first base, where Greg Bird was returning from a year-long absence in 2016. He now has a 1.476 OPS this spring.

The other unknown was in right field, where top prospect Aaron Judge needed to hit his way into a job. With a .988 OPS to his name, he's well on his way.

And while it's a bit soon to knock Austin Romine down a peg, Kyle Higashioka is another youngster to watch. His 1.970 OPS through seven games indicates he would very much like to be Gary Sanchez's backup.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Masahiro Tanaka	LHP Aroldis Chapman
LHP CC Sabathia	RHP Dellin Betances
RHP Michael Pineda	RHP Tyler Clippard
RHP Luis Severino	LHP Tommy Layne
RHP Chad Green	RHP Luis Cessa
	RHP Bryan Mitchell
	RHP Adam Warren

Luis Severino and Chad Green seem to be the ones with first dibs on the last two spots in the Yankees rotation. And while Adam Warren and Luis Cessa are challenging those dibs, Severino and Green haven't pitched poorly enough to lose their grasp just yet.

Fortunately for them, Cessa and Warren fit well in the bullpen. Ditto for fellow rotation competitor Bryan Mitchell. That narrows things down to Tommy Layne, who's a good fit to be a lefty specialist and is out of options anyway.

Oakland Athletics

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A's ace Sonny Gray is looking to bounce back in 2017.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Stephen Vogt	C Josh Phegley
1B Yonder Alonso	INF Adam Rosales
2B Jed Lowrie	OF Mark Canha
3B Trevor Plouffe	OF Jake Smolinski
SS Marcus Semien
LF Khris Davis
CF Rajai Davis
RF Matt Joyce
DH Ryon Healy

With Jed Lowrie healthy and hitting well in the early goings this spring, it looks like the A's have answered what had been the biggest question in their lineup.

There aren't many question marks elsewhere. It really only comes down to the final spot on the bench, which is tied to the health of Jake Smolinski's shoulder. If he heals up well over the next few weeks, he'll break camp as the club's fourth outfielder.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Sonny Gray	RHP Ryan Madson
RHP Kendall Graveman	LHP Sean Doolittle
LHP Sean Manaea	RHP Santiago Casilla
RHP Jharel Cotton	RHP Ryan Dull
RHP Andrew Triggs	RHP John Axford
	RHP Liam Hendricks
	RHP Raul Alcantara

With Daniel Mengden out with a foot injury, Jharel Cotton and Andrew Triggs just need to pitch well to crack the back end of Oakland's rotation. Apart from some control issues on Cotton's part, they're obliging.

As for the bullpen, Raul Alcantara is emerging as a strong fit for the long relief role. Alternatively, the A's could forgo a long man and opt for a second left-hander. Ross Detwiler and Daniel Coulombe are among those trying to force the issue.

Philadelphia Phillies

Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Vince Velasquez is part of an intriguing Phillies rotation.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Cameron Rupp	C Ryan Hanigan
1B Tommy Joseph	INF Andres Blanco
2B Cesar Hernandez	OF Aaron Altherr
3B Maikel Franco	INF/OF Chris Coghlan
SS Freddy Galvis	1B Brock Stassi
LF Howie Kendrick
CF Odubel Herrera
RF Michael Saunders

Todd Zolecki of MLB.com wrote last month that Phillies manager Pete Mackanin would prefer a veteran as a backup for Cameron Rupp at catcher.

That's a job for Ryan Hanigan and Bryan Holaday. Both are hitting well but in small sample sizes, so we're in wild-guess territory for the moment. Hanigan gets the nod due to his edge in experience.

Elsewhere, there should be room on the bench for both Chris Coghlan and Brock Stassi. Coghlan has his versatility and his track record of hitting right-handed pitching. Stassi has his 1.819 spring OPS.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Jeremy Hellickson	RHP Jeanmar Gomez
RHP Clay Buchholz	RHP Hector Neris
RHP Jerad Eickhoff	RHP Joaquin Benoit
RHP Aaron Nola	RHP Pat Neshek
RHP Vince Velasquez	RHP Edubray Ramos
	LHP Joely Rodriguez
	LHP Adam Morgan

None of the Phillies' projected starters have gotten hurt yet, so the only questions that need answering are in the bullpen.

That's where Adam Morgan is looking like a fit for the long relief role, as he's allowed only two runs in six and two-thirds innings this spring. Joely Rodriguez, who's had three solid outings of his own, can handle a more traditional bullpen lefty role.

Pittsburgh Pirates

Justin K. Aller/Getty Images

Jung Ho Kang's status is the biggest unanswered question in Pirates camp.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Francisco Cervelli	C Chris Stewart
1B Josh Bell	INF/OF John Jaso
2B Josh Harrison	INF David Freese
3B Jung Ho Kang	INF Adam Frazier
SS Jordy Mercer	INF Alen Hanson
LF Gregory Polanco
CF Starling Marte
RF Andrew McCutchen

This is assuming the Pirates won't discipline Jung Ho Kang following a DUI arrest, his third, over the winter. This could be a long shot, but Pirates president Frank Coonelly's statement on the matter seemed to leave the door open for light discipline.

If Kang does make the Pirates' Opening Day roster, there will be room for Adam Frazier and Alen Hanson on the bench. The former made a strong impression in 2016. The latter is out of options.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Gerrit Cole	LHP Tony Watson
RHP Jameson Taillon	RHP Daniel Hudson
RHP Ivan Nova	LHP Felipe Rivero
RHP Chad Kuhl	RHP Jaun Nicasio
RHP Drew Hutchison	LHP Antonio Bastardo
	RHP Jared Hughes
	LHP Wade LeBlanc

Tyler Glasnow, one of the top right-handed prospects in baseball, raised eyebrows when he struck out six of the seven men he faced in his spring debut. He then fell back to earth in his second outing, a reminder that there's still work to do for him to live up to his talent.

That's one less roadblock in the way of Chad Kuhl and Drew Hutchison, who are having strong springs anyway. If both of them slide into the rotation, the out-of-options Wade LeBlanc can slide into the bullpen as a long reliever.

San Diego Padres

Andy Hayt/Getty Images

Christian Bethancourt is part catcher, part outfielder and part pitcher.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Austin Hedges	C/OF/P Christian Bethancourt
1B Wil Myers	C Luis Torrens
2B Ryan Schimpf	OF Travis Jankowski
3B Yangervis Solarte	INF/OF Cory Spangenberg
SS Luis Sardinas	INF Erick Aybar
LF Alex Dickerson
CF Manuel Margot
RF Hunter Renfroe

Technically speaking, the Padres are holding competitions at second base and in center field.

In reality, the foursome of Ryan Schimpf, Cory Spangenberg, Manuel Margot and Travis Jankowski should make the roster regardless. Right now, the only upset pictured here is Margot starting over Jankowski, who's rocking with a 1.059 OPS this spring.

The only other question mark is the final spot on the bench. As a veteran infielder who might turn into trade bait, Erick Aybar is a better fit for it than Allen Cordoba, who has yet to play above rookie ball.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Clayton Richard	RHP Brandon Maurer
RHP Jered Weaver	LHP Brad Hand
RHP Jhoulys Chacin	LHP Ryan Buchter
RHP Luis Perdomo	RHP Carter Capps
RHP Trevor Cahill	RHP Jarred Cosart
	RHP Paul Clemens
	RHP Miguel Diaz

With a rotation this weak, carrying only a seven-man bullpen is arguably too risky. That's where Christian Bethancourt can help, as he actually looks capable of handling part-time pitching duty on top of his catching and outfield duties.

Meanwhile, the good news on the rotation front is that Trevor Cahill is seizing his opportunity to start. He's allowed one hit and no runs in five innings so far this spring.

If Carter Capps is indeed good to go by Opening Day, there will be one less bullpen spot available. Rule 5 pick Miguel Diaz should get one spot with another two going to Jarred Cosart and Paul Clemens, who are out of options.

San Francisco Giants

Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Jarrett Parker is looking like a starter.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Buster Posey	C Nick Hundley
1B Brandon Belt	INF Conor Gillaspie
2B Joe Panik	OF Gorkys Hernandez
3B Eduardo Nunez	INF Kelby Tomlinson
SS Brandon Crawford	OF Mac Williamson
LF Jarrett Parker
CF Denard Span
RF Hunter Pence

Left field was the big question going into Giants camp, but Jarrett Parker has taken that race in hand. In eight games, he has a 1.028 OPS and a pair of homers.

Where things really get tricky is on the Giants bench. There are spots for Nick Hundley, Conor Gillaspie and Gorkys Hernandez, but the other two are wide open. 

Kelby Tomlinson and Mac Williamson make sense as a spare middle infielder and a platoon partner for Parker. But the Giants could just as easily pick from Aaron Hill, Jae Gyun Hwang and Michael Morse. It's anyone's guess for now, and figures to be a tough decision for Bruce Bochy and company later.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Madison Bumgarner	RHP Mark Melancon
RHP Johnny Cueto	RHP Hunter Strickland
RHP Jeff Samardzija	RHP Derek Law
LHP Matt Moore	LHP Will Smith
LHP Ty Blach	RHP George Kontos
	LHP Steven Okert
	RHP Matt Cain

Matt Cain has seniority and his contract working in his favor in the race for the No. 5 spot in the Giants rotation. However, he hasn't been a reliable starter in years and isn't inspiring confidence with his spring training performance. Good news for Ty Blach, who is continuing his intriguing rise.

Cain can slide into a long relief role if Blach edges him in the rotation race. With three scoreless appearances this spring, Steven Okert would appear to have the inside track at the only other available spot in the bullpen.

Seattle Mariners

Norm Hall/Getty Images

Nelson Cruz and the Mariners look pretty much set.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Mike Zunino	C Carlos Ruiz
1B Dan Vogelbach	INF/OF Danny Valencia
2B Robinson Cano	INF/OF Shawn O'Malley
3B Kyle Seager	OF Guillermo Heredia
SS Jean Segura
LF Jarrod Dyson
CF Leonys Martin
RF Mitch Haniger
DH Nelson Cruz

The Mariners entered camp needing to see something from Dan Vogelbach at first and Mitch Haniger in right field. Their wish has been granted. Vogelbach is hitting .333 with a solid .777 OPS. Haniger has a 1.278 OPS and two homers.

Of course, Danny Valencia will platoon with Vogelbach and see time elsewhere as well. Guillermo Heredia, a switch-hitter, is seizing the fourth outfielder role with a 1.439 OPS this spring.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Felix Hernandez	RHP Edwin Diaz
RHP Hisashi Iwakuma	RHP Dan Altavilla
LHP James Paxton	RHP Nick Vincent
LHP Drew Smyly	RHP Evan Scribner
RHP Yovani Gallardo	LHP Marc Rzepczynski
	RHP Casey Fien
	RHP Chris Heston

Seattle's rotation is all set, barring any injuries. And apart from the last two spots, the club's bullpen looks mostly set as well.

With five strikeouts in three scoreless appearances, Casey Fien is staking his claim to one of the bullpen spots. With four scoreless frames of his own, Chris Heston is gunning for the long man role.

St. Louis Cardinals

Billie Weiss/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images

Michael Wacha's quest for a rotation spot is going well.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Yadier Molina	C Eric Fryer
1B Matt Carpenter	1B Matt Adams
2B Kolten Wong	INF Greg Garcia
3B Jhonny Peralta	OF Tommy Pham
SS Aledmys Diaz	INF Jedd Gyorko
LF Randal Grichuk
CF Dexter Fowler
RF Stephen Piscotty

Going into camp, maybe the only question regarding the Cardinals lineup was whether it would be Jhonny Peralta or Jedd Gyorko at third base.

With a .974 OPS through seven games, Gyorko is making his push. And with a 1.018 OPS through six games, Peralta is holding him off. Which is probably just as well. Gyorko serves the Cardinals better as a roving slugger than an everyday player at one position.

Otherwise, only the backup catcher slot may inspire surprise. Carson Kelly is a young up-and-comer who's showed well this spring, but it's too soon to bury him behind Yadier Molina. That's a role for Eric Fryer.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Adam Wainwright	RHP Seung Hwan Oh
RHP Carlos Martinez	LHP Brett Cecil
RHP Mike Leake	LHP Kevin Siegrist
RHP Lance Lynn	RHP Trevor Rosenthal
RHP Michael Wacha	RHP Matt Bowman
	RHP Jonathan Broxton
	RHP Miguel Socolovich

With top prospect Alex Reyes out of the picture, the No. 5 slot in the Cardinals rotation is Michael Wacha's to lose. So far, so good. The right-hander has pitched five scoreless innings this spring.

Provided Kevin Siegrist and Trevor Rosenthal are healthy, the Cardinals bullpen is also set. Matt Bowman and Jonathan Broxton are holding on to their spots with seven clean innings between them. Miguel Socolovich, who's out of options, has also pitched well.

Tampa Bay Rays

Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Evan Longoria is a set piece in an otherwise shape-shifting Rays lineup.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Curt Casali	C Luke Maile
1B Logan Morrison	INF Nick Franklin
2B Brad Miller	INF Tim Beckham
3B Evan Longoria	OF Mallex Smith
SS Matt Duffy
LF Colby Rasmus
CF Kevin Kiermaier
RF Steven Souza
DH Corey Dickerson

The notable absence here is Wilson Ramos, who won't be ready to return from a torn ACL until well after Opening Day. It'll be up to Curt Casali and Luke Maile to cover for him.

Seemingly the only spot up for grabs is the final spot on the Rays bench. It would be best served going to a fourth outfield type. Mallex Smith fits the description and should see his share of playing time in what's likely to be a shape-shifting lineup.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Chris Archer	RHP Alex Colome
RHP Alex Cobb	RHP Brad Boxberger
RHP Jake Odorizzi	LHP Xavier Cedeno
LHP Blake Snell	RHP Erasmo Ramirez
RHP Matt Andriese	RHP Danny Farquhar
	RHP Shawn Tolleson
	RHP Chase Whitley

Jose De Leon was the other big addition the Rays made this winter. But he was an underdog for the No. 5 spot in the rotation to begin with, and set himself back by getting rocked in his spring debut.

Matt Andriese is the top pick for the No. 5 spot now, and Chase Whitley can be the club's swingman if that's how things work out. That would take care of one of the two spots in the Tampa Bay pen not filled by out-of-options arms. Shawn Tolleson, the former Texas Rangers closer, can fill the other.

Texas Rangers

Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Jurickson Profar finally seems poised for an everyday role.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Jonathan Lucroy	C Robinson Chirinos
1B Mike Napoli	INF/OF Ryan Rua
2B Rougned Odor	OF Delino DeShields Jr.
3B Adrian Beltre	INF Hanser Alberto
SS Elvis Andrus
LF Jurickson Profar
CF Carlos Gomez
RF Nomar Mazara
DH Shin-Soo Choo

When Josh Hamilton re-signed with the Rangers this winter, he had a chance to reestablish himself as a designated hitter.

Not anymore. Hamilton had to go in for knee surgery. That opens up the DH spot for Shin-Soo Choo, right field for Nomar Mazara and left field for Jurickson Profar, who will finally get his chance to play every day.

The one red flag here is that they're all right-handed hitters on the Rangers' projected bench. But with three left-handed hitters and a switch-hitter in their starting lineup, that's not a deal-breaker.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
LHP Cole Hamels	RHP Sam Dyson
RHP Yu Darvish	RHP Matt Bush
LHP Martin Perez	RHP Jeremy Jeffress
RHP Andrew Cashner	RHP Tony Barnette
RHP A.J. Griffin	RHP Keone Kela
	LHP Alex Claudio
	RHP Dillon Gee

There are two big question marks after the front three in the Rangers rotation. And Andrew Cashner and A.J. Griffin aren't the most inspiring answers to those questions.

It would thus behoove the Rangers to carry a reliable swingman with them in their bullpen rather than a second left-hander to go with Alex Claudio. Dillon Gee has done that kind of work in the past, and is hinting with a strong beginning to his spring that he can do it again.

Toronto Blue Jays

Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images

Josh Donaldson's health has become an unwanted storyline in Blue Jays camp.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Russell Martin	C Jarrod Saltalamacchia
1B Justin Smoak	INF/OF Steve Pearce
2B Brett Lawrie	OF Melvin Upton Jr.
3B Josh Donaldson	INF Darwin Barney
SS Troy Tulowitzki
LF Ezequiel Carrera
CF Kevin Pillar
RF Jose Bautista
DH Kendrys Morales

In speaking with reporters (including Richard Griffin of the Toronto Star) on Tuesday, Blue Jays skipper John Gibbons didn't sound optimistic about second baseman Devon Travis being ready for Opening Day.

Meanwhile, ESPN's Jim Bowden reports that the Blue Jays have interest in old friend Brett Lawrie. Since he could also spell Josh Donaldson, who's recovering from a calf injury, at third base, that's a fit that works.

Otherwise, the Blue Jays are set with the rest of their lineup and bench.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Aaron Sanchez	RHP Roberto Osuna
LHP J.A. Happ	RHP Jason Grilli
RHP Marco Estrada	LHP J.P. Howell
RHP Marcus Stroman	RHP Joe Smith
LHP Francisco Liriano	RHP Joe Biagini
	LHP Aaron Loup
	RHP Mike Bolsinger

Health permitting, the Blue Jays are all set with their rotation. And with no options remaining, Mike Bolsinger should make it into the bullpen as a long man.

Two other spots in the bullpen seem to be open. Joe Biagini is grabbing hold of one of them with his strong work this spring. Aaron Loup's track record against left-handers makes him a candidate for the other.

Washington Nationals

Patrick McDermott/Getty Images

Max Scherzer's finger is one of the big questions in Nationals camp.

Position Players

Starters	Bench
C Matt Wieters	C Jose Lobaton
1B Ryan Zimmerman	1B Adam Lind
2B Daniel Murphy	INF Stephen Drew
3B Anthony Rendon	OF Chris Heisey
SS Trea Turner	1B/OF Clint Robinson
LF Jayson Werth
CF Adam Eaton
RF Bryce Harper

The Nationals put themselves in an awkward spot with Derek Norris when they signed Matt Wieters. As Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports reported, they could release Norris if they don't find a trading partner for him.

That would give the backup catcher role to Jose Lobaton, who's a better fit for it anyway. The only other question is whether the Nationals will reward Michael A. Taylor's hot spring with a roster spot. Since he has an option and Clint Robinson doesn't, the answer's probably no.

Pitchers

Rotation	Bullpen
RHP Max Scherzer	RHP Shawn Kelley
RHP Stephen Strasburg	RHP Blake Treinen
RHP Tanner Roark	RHP Joe Blanton
LHP Gio Gonzalez	LHP Oliver Perez
RHP Joe Ross	RHP Koda Glover
	LHP Enny Romero
	RHP Vance Worley

Max Scherzer has been out of action with a finger injury, but things are looking up. According to Jorge Castillo of the Washington Post, the two-time Cy Young winner was able to face live batters for the first time on Tuesday.

"Things looked right," Scherzer said, "and that's what I'm going to just hang my hat on."

Scherzer being healthy would allow the Nationals to keep their projected rotation intact. That would allow Vance Worley to slide into the same swingman role that he performed well in Baltimore last year. Koda Glover and Enny Romero, who's out of options, are pitching their way into roles.

Data courtesy of Baseball-Reference.com, FanGraphs, MLB.com and RosterResource.com.