2018 Spring Training Predictions for All 30 MLB Teams' Final 25-Man Rosters
With Opening Day looming on March 29, teams across Major League Baseball don't have long until the games stop being for practice and start counting for real.
They also don't have long to finalize their rosters.
We're here to take a whack at predicting which 25 players each team will take into 2018. This means plugging in a few outstanding free agents, as well as accounting for spring performances, injuries and other factors (e.g., minor league options and Rule 5 status) that go into shaping an Opening Day roster.
We'll go in alphabetical order by city, starting now.
Arizona Diamondbacks
1 of 30
Position Players
| C | Alex Avila | L |
| 1B | Paul Goldschmidt | R |
| 2B | Ketel Marte | S |
| 3B | Jake Lamb | L |
| SS | Nick Ahmed | R |
| LF | David Peralta | L |
| CF | A.J. Pollock | R |
| RF | Steven Souza Jr. | R |
| Bench C | Jeff Mathis | R |
| Bench C/UTIL | Chris Herrmann | L |
| Bench UTIL | Daniel Descalso | L |
| Bench UTIL | Chris Owings | R |
| Bench OF | Jarrod Dyson | L |
The Arizona Diamondbacks haven't yet settled on a double play combination, but shortstop is as good as Nick Ahmed's and second base is as good as Ketel Marte's. Chris Owings isn't putting heat on either with his .542 OPS this spring.
Otherwise, the only story of note is the absence of Yasmany Tomas. The Cuban slugger had a shot at reclaiming right field for a while there, but the D-Backs put the kibosh on that by signing Jarrod Dyson and trading for Steven Souza Jr.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Zack Greinke | R |
| SP 2 | Robbie Ray | L |
| SP 3 | Taijuan Walker | R |
| SP 4 | Patrick Corbin | L |
| SP 5 | Zack Godley | R |
| CL | Archie Bradley | R |
| RP | Brad Boxberger | R |
| RP | Yoshihisa Hirano | R |
| RP | Randall Delgado | R |
| RP | Andrew Chafin | L |
| RP | Jimmie Sherfy | R |
| LR | Albert Suarez | R |
Zack Greinke and the other main players from Arizona's excellent 2017 starting rotation are all back for 2018 and have thus far avoided any calamities in spring training.
In the bullpen, Archie Bradley earned first dibs at the club's vacant closer role with his dominant breakout last season. Assuming he gets over some bothersome shoulder fatigue, Jimmie Sherfy's own late-season dominance from last year should net him one of the two open spots. Albert Suarez, a Rule 5 pick, should edge veteran left-hander Jorge De La Rosa for the other.
Atlanta Braves
2 of 30
Position Players
| C | Tyler Flowers | R |
| 1B | Freddie Freeman | L |
| 2B | Ozzie Albies | S |
| 3B | Johan Carmago | S |
| SS | Dansby Swanson | R |
| LF | Preston Tucker | L |
| CF | Ender Inciarte | L |
| RF | Nick Markakis | L |
| Bench C | Kurt Suzuki | R |
| Bench INF | Charlie Culberson | R |
| Bench UTIL | Danny Santana | S |
| Bench OF | Lane Adams | R |
Ronald Acuna went into spring training as MLB.com's No. 2 prospect and is now making a compelling case (.969 spring OPS) to crack the Atlanta Braves' lineup. However, they're bound to hold him back at least long enough to gain an extra year of club control.
Instead, the Braves will platoon Preston Tucker and Lane Adams in left field. Charlie Culberson, Danny Santana and Ryan Schimpf are three interesting utility options. Since Schimpf, who was just acquired on Monday, has minor league options left, he's likely to be the odd man out.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Julio Teheran | R |
| SP 2 | Mike Foltynewicz | R |
| SP 3 | Brandon McCarthy | R |
| SP 4 | Sean Newcomb | L |
| SP 5 | Scott Kazmir | L |
| CL | Arodys Vizcaino | R |
| RP | Jose Ramirez | R |
| RP | Peter Moylan | R |
| RP | A.J. Minter | L |
| RP | Sam Freeman | L |
| RP | Dan Winkler | R |
| RP | Anyelo Gomez | R |
| LR | Lucas Sims | R |
The Braves have two rotation slots to fill after their front three. Sean Newcomb seems to have an inside track at one of them. The other is more wide open, but Luiz Gohara's groin injury will make it easier for veteran lefty Scott Kazmir to claim it.
Speaking of wide open, the bottom half of Atlanta's bullpen is a puzzle. Sam Freeman has no options and a 0.00 ERA this spring, so he should be in. Dan Winkler and Anyelo Gomez are Rule 5 picks who are also having good springs, so they're also in.
Lastly, Aaron Blair is the best of the answers for the swingman role. He's in better shape this year and has looked the part with three scoreless innings thus far in camp.
Baltimore Orioles
3 of 30
Position Players
| C | Chance Sisco | L |
| 1B | Chris Davis | L |
| 2B | Jonathan Schoop | R |
| 3B | Tim Beckham | R |
| SS | Manny Machado | R |
| LF | Trey Mancini | R |
| CF | Adam Jones | R |
| RF | Colby Rasmus | L |
| DH | Mark Trumbo | R |
| Bench C | Caleb Joseph | R |
| Bench UTIL | Luis Sardinas | S |
| Bench OF/1B | Anthony Santander | S |
| Bench OF | Joey Rickard | R |
Right field is the only spot up for grabs in the Baltimore Orioles' starting lineup. Colby Rasmus is the best choice for it based on experience, although it probably won't be long before he's supplanted for good by top prospect Austin Hays.
Rasmus' taking right field would free up Joey Rickard to be the team's fourth outfielder. Anthony Santander (who's a Rule 5 pick) and Luis Sardinas (who's out of options) are both hitting their way onto Baltimore's bench this spring.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Dylan Bundy | R |
| SP 2 | Kevin Gausman | R |
| SP 3 | Andrew Cashner | R |
| SP 4 | Chris Tillman | R |
| SP 5 | Gabriel Ynoa | R |
| CL | Brad Brach | R |
| RP | Darren O'Day | R |
| RP | Mychal Givens | R |
| RP | Richard Bleier | L |
| RP | Miguel Castro | R |
| RP | Donnie Hart | L |
| LR | Mike Wright Jr. | R |
The Orioles rotation was a shallow mess for much of the winter. But after the late signings of Andrew Cashner and Chris Tillman, now there's merely the question of who'll be the No. 5 starter. Even with his 15.75 spring ERA, Gabriel Ynoa is the best of a not-great collection of options.
The bullpen will miss Zach Britton as he recovers from a ruptured Achilles tendon. But on the bright side, it's still solid at the back and doesn't come with many holes to plug.
Since they're out of options, Mike Wright Jr. and (assuming he's healthy) Miguel Castro should make the cut. Donnie Hart doesn't have a firm grip on a role as a second lefty alongside Richard Bleier, but he's doing his part to earn it with six strikeouts and one walk this spring.
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Boston Red Sox
4 of 30
Position Players
| C | Christian Vazquez | R |
| 1B | Mitch Moreland | L |
| 2B | Eduardo Nunez | R |
| 3B | Rafael Devers | L |
| SS | Xander Bogaerts | R |
| LF | Andrew Benintendi | L |
| CF | Jackie Bradley Jr. | L |
| RF | Mookie Betts | R |
| DH | J.D. Martinez | R |
| Bench C | Sandy Leon | S |
| Bench 1B/DH | Hanley Ramirez | R |
| Bench UTIL | Brock Holt | L |
| Bench C/UTIL | Blake Swihart | S |
The arrival of J.D. Martinez means the Boston Red Sox finally have a worthy successor to David Ortiz at designated hitter. It also means Mitch Moreland and Hanley Ramirez will split time at first base. Elsewhere, Dustin Pedroia's injury opens the door for Eduardo Nunez and Brock Holt to share second base.
This just leaves the question of how the Red Sox will round out their four-man bench. Sandy Leon, Blake Swihart and Deven Marrero are all out options. Swihart seemed to be the odd man out when camp opened, but his 1.197 spring OPS has changed that equation.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Chris Sale | L |
| SP 2 | David Price | L |
| SP 3 | Rick Porcello | R |
| SP 4 | Drew Pomeranz | L |
| SP 5 | Brian Johnson | L |
| CL | Craig Kimbrel | R |
| RP | Carson Smith | R |
| RP | Joe Kelly | R |
| RP | Matt Barnes | R |
| RP | Brandon Workman | R |
| RP | Robby Scott | L |
| LR | Heath Hembree | R |
With Eduardo Rodriguez and Steven Wright both nursing knee injuries, the door is open for somebody to claim the final slot in Boston's star-studded rotation. Brian Johnson is the best choice on account of his having a 3.86 ERA this spring and also being out of options.
Assuming Tyler Thornburg needs more time to recover from his shoulder woes, there's a spot in the club's bullpen for Brandon Workman. Between the 3.18 ERA he had last year and the 0.00 ERA he has this spring, he's done plenty to earn it.
Chicago Cubs
5 of 30
Position Players
| C | Willson Contreras | R |
| 1B | Anthony Rizzo | L |
| 2B | Javier Baez | R |
| 3B | Kris Bryant | R |
| SS | Addison Russell | R |
| LF | Kyle Schwarber | L |
| CF | Ian Happ | S |
| RF | Jason Heyward | L |
| Bench C | Chris Gimenez | R |
| Bench UTIL | Ben Zobrist | S |
| Bench UTIL | Tommy La Stella | L |
| Bench OF | Albert Almora Jr. | R |
The Chicago Cubs came to camp with an unsettled pecking order in their outfield. Ian Happ has staked his claim to the bulk of the center field duty with a 1.690 OPS. Meanwhile, a significantly svelter Kyle Schwarber hasn't done anything to open the door a crack for Ben Zobrist.
There's also a question of who'll be Willson Contreras' backup. Victor Caratini is trailing that race behind Chris Gimenez, who owns an .849 OPS in a small sample this spring.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Jon Lester | L |
| SP 2 | Yu Darvish | R |
| SP 3 | Kyle Hendricks | R |
| SP 4 | Jose Quintana | L |
| SP 5 | Tyler Chatwood | R |
| CL | Brandon Morrow | R |
| RP | Pedro Strop | R |
| RP | Carl Edwards Jr. | R |
| RP | Steve Cishek | R |
| RP | Justin Wilson | L |
| RP | Justin Grimm | R |
| RP | Brian Duensing | L |
| LR | Mike Montgomery | L |
Ol' standby Pedro Strop has a calf injury that's at least worth monitoring. It doesn't seem to be serious, though, and that means there's just one question concerning Chicago's pitching staff: Will Mike Montgomery remain a part of it?
From what he told Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune about wanting to be a starter, it's clear that Montgomery isn't too enthused about the possibility of being a swingman. That's his role for now, but it's possible that he could be traded before Opening Day.
Chicago White Sox
6 of 30
Position Players
| C | Welington Castillo | R |
| 1B | Jose Abreu | R |
| 2B | Yoan Moncada | S |
| 3B | Yolmer Sanchez | S |
| SS | Tim Anderson | R |
| LF | Nick Delmonico | L |
| CF | Adam Engel | R |
| RF | Avisail Garcia | R |
| DH | Matt Davidson | R |
| Bench C | Omar Narvaez | L |
| Bench INF | Tyler Saladino | R |
| Bench OF | Leury Garcia | S |
According to a recent report from Jon Paul Morosi of MLB.com, the Chicago White Sox "had dialogue" about signing Mike Moustakas and/or Carlos Gonzalez. Since then, the former ship has sailed and the latter ship is very close to sailing.
This is good news for Yolmer Sanchez, who gets to keep his projected gig at third base, and for Nick Delmonico and Matt Davidson. Delmonico has a job in left field. Davidson should claim the club's DH role on the strength of his 1.186 spring OPS.
As for the White Sox's crowded center field competition, Adam Engel already offered a capable glove and is now teasing some offense with a 1.023 spring OPS.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | James Shields | R |
| SP 2 | Lucas Giolito | R |
| SP 3 | Reynaldo Lopez | R |
| SP 4 | Miguel Gonzalez | R |
| SP 5 | Hector Santiago | L |
| CL | Joakim Soria | R |
| RP | Nate Jones | R |
| RP | Juan Minaya | R |
| RP | Gregory Infante | R |
| RP | Luis Avilan | L |
| RP | Aaron Bummer | L |
| RP | Rob Scahill | R |
| RP | Jeanmar Gomez | R |
Carson Fulmer arrived to camp with a fair shot at earning the No. 5 slot in Chicago's rotation. But as he's struggled with a 22.50 ERA, Hector Santiago has risen from the ashes with a 1.13 ERA.
Nate Jones' return from Tommy John surgery is going well so far, and Gregory Infante's shoulder issue isn't yet something to panic about.
As such, the White Sox should have only three bullpen spots up for grabs. Aaron Bummer would be a good second lefty alongside Luis Avilan. Rob Scahill is earning a spot with a 1.35 ERA and 6-0 K/BB ratio this spring. With a 0.00 ERA and 7-1 K/BB of his own, Jeanmar Gomez is also earning a spot.
Cincinnati Reds
7 of 30
Position Players
| C | Tucker Barnhart | S |
| 1B | Joey Votto | L |
| 2B | Scooter Gennett | L |
| 3B | Eugenio Suarez | R |
| SS | Jose Peraza | R |
| LF | Adam Duvall | R |
| CF | Billy Hamilton | S |
| RF | Jesse Winker | L |
| Bench C | Devin Mesoraco | R |
| Bench INF | Cliff Pennington | S |
| Bench OF | Scott Schebler | L |
| Bench OF | Phillip Ervin | R |
Jesse Winker teased his potential with a .904 OPS in 47 major league games last season, and he is at it again this spring with a 1.067 OPS. He should have a corner outfield spot locked up, which will push Adam Duvall and Scott Schebler into a platoon in the other.
There's a chance that the Reds will carry both Cliff Pennington and Phil Gosselin if they feel like having two backup infielders. Instead, it's more likely that they'll just use Pennington and forgo a five-man bench in favor of an eight-man bullpen.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Anthony DeSclafani | R |
| SP 2 | Homer Bailey | R |
| SP 3 | Brandon Finnegan | L |
| SP 4 | Luis Castillo | R |
| SP 5 | Amir Garrett | L |
| CL | Raisel Iglesias | R |
| RP | Michael Lorenzen | R |
| RP | Jared Hughes | R |
| RP | David Hernandez | R |
| RP | Wandy Peralta | L |
| RP | Kevin Shackleford | R |
| RP | Zack Weiss | R |
| LR | Vance Worley | R |
The Reds needed to find a No. 5 starter this spring. Amir Garrett is turning that into an easy call. The former top prospect has made three appearances and struck out 11 against just two walks.
Garrett's dominance will likely mean Michael Lorenzen's ticket back to the bullpen. Kevin Shackleford and Zack Weiss are laying strong claims to two open spots. And despite his 14.54 spring ERA, righty Vance Worley is a natural choice for the club's swingman role.
Cleveland Indians
8 of 30
Position Players
| C | Roberto Perez | R |
| 1B | Yonder Alonso | L |
| 2B | Jason Kipnis | L |
| 3B | Jose Ramirez | S |
| SS | Francisco Lindor | S |
| LF | Tyler Naquin | L |
| CF | Bradley Zimmer | L |
| RF | Lonnie Chisenhall | L |
| DH | Edwin Encarnacion | R |
| Bench C | Yan Gomes | R |
| Bench UTIL | Erik Gonzalez | R |
| Bench OF | Abraham Almonte | S |
| Bench OF | Brandon Guyer | R |
The Cleveland Indians had Michael Brantley and Brandon Guyer penciled into their left field depth chart when spring training began. Now, they're both dealing with injuries that could keep them out of action on Opening Day.
Between the two, it's Guyer who stands the better chance of being ready. If so, the Indians could either shift Jason Kipnis to left field to be his lefty-hitting platoon partner or call on Tyler Naquin for the job. Since Naquin is hitting well this spring, they would be better off having both their bats in the lineup rather than just one.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Corey Kluber | R |
| SP 2 | Carlos Carrasco | R |
| SP 3 | Trevor Bauer | R |
| SP 4 | Josh Tomlin | R |
| SP 5 | Mike Clevinger | R |
| CL | Cody Allen | R |
| RP | Andrew Miller | L |
| RP | Dan Otero | R |
| RP | Nick Goody | R |
| RP | Tyler Olson | L |
| RP | Zach McAllister | R |
| LR | Ryan Merritt | L |
Danny Salazar was firmly in the mix for the Indians starting rotation, but he developed a shoulder problem as soon as camp opened. That's Mike Clevinger's gain. And maybe Cleveland's, too, if he recaptures the magic that produced a 3.11 ERA and a rate of 10.1 strikeouts per nine innings last year.
It's possible that Cleveland will use Matt Belisle's strong spring as an excuse to stretch the bullpen from seven men to eight. If not, it'll be set as soon as Ryan Merritt, who's out of options, is plugged into the final spot.
Colorado Rockies
9 of 30
Position Players
| C | Chris Iannetta | R |
| 1B | Ryan McMahon | L |
| 2B | DJ LeMahieu | R |
| 3B | Nolan Arenado | R |
| SS | Trevor Story | R |
| LF | Ian Desmond | R |
| CF | Charlie Blackmon | L |
| RF | Carlos Gonzalez | L |
| Bench C | Tony Wolters | L |
| Bench UTIL | Pat Valaika | R |
| Bench OF | Gerardo Parra | L |
| Bench OF | Mike Tauchman | R |
The Colorado Rockies were going to be in a pickle if Ryan McMahon didn't stake his claim to first base this spring. Lucky for them, he's done so with a cool .901 OPS.
That means Ian Desmond is safe to return to left field. With Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports reporting that Carlos Gonzalez is set to return on a one-year year, right field will also be secure.
If so, Gerardo Parra will be freed to claim a fourth outfielder job that suits him well. There should also be room for Mike Tauchman, who's opened eyes with a 1.050 OPS this spring.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Jon Gray | R |
| SP 2 | Chad Bettis | R |
| SP 3 | Tyler Anderson | L |
| SP 4 | German Marquez | R |
| SP 5 | Kyle Freeland | L |
| CL | Wade Davis | R |
| RP | Bryan Shaw | R |
| RP | Jake McGee | L |
| RP | Adam Ottavino | R |
| RP | Chris Rusin | L |
| RP | Mike Dunn | L |
| RP | Scott Oberg | R |
| RP | Carlos Estevez | R |
This may be the first time in history that the Rockies haven't had major questions to answer in their starting rotation. What they have is good. Heck, really good.
Their bullpen isn't too shabby in its own right, and it is set except for the last two spots. Scott Oberg should get one based on his experience. Carlos Estevez will be on track for the other if he recovers well from a minor midsection injury.
Detroit Tigers
10 of 30
Position Players
| C | James McCann | R |
| 1B | Miguel Cabrera | R |
| 2B | Dixon Machado | R |
| 3B | Jeimer Candelario | S |
| SS | Jose Iglesias | R |
| LF | Mikie Mahtook | R |
| CF | Leonys Martin | L |
| RF | Nicholas Castellanos | R |
| DH | Victor Martinez | S |
| Bench C | John Hicks | R |
| Bench UTIL | Alexi Amarista | L |
| Bench UTIL | Niko Goodrum | S |
| Bench OF | JaCoby Jones | R |
For much of the last decade, Detroit Tigers rosters have tended to consist of a whole bunch of stars and then everyone else. Now, it's everyone else and a few stars.
Still, it's not all bad.
Nicholas Castellanos and Jeimer Candelario look ready to take over for Miguel Cabrera and Victor Martinez as the team's big stars. Meanwhile, Niko Goodrum and JaCoby Jones are hitting well enough to earn bench spots that should come with ample opportunities for playing time.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Michael Fulmer | R |
| SP 2 | Jordan Zimmermann | R |
| SP 3 | Matt Boyd | L |
| SP 4 | Mike Fiers | R |
| SP 5 | Daniel Norris | L |
| CL | Shane Greene | R |
| RP | Alex Wilson | R |
| RP | Francisco Liriano | L |
| RP | Drew VerHagen | R |
| RP | Daniel Stumpf | L |
| RP | Buck Farmer | R |
| LR | Warwick Saupold | R |
The first four slots in Detroit's rotation are set. The question is whether the last slot should go to Daniel Norris, or if he should go to the bullpen to make room for recent free-agent signee Francisco Liriano.
At this point, only one of these guys' best days as a starter are ahead of him. It's not Liriano, who should be allowed to become a lefty specialist who could later be in demand on the summer trade market.
Elsewhere, there was a good race to be had between Travis Wood and Warwick Saupold for Detroit's swingman role. But after Wood tore his ACL and got released, it's probably safe to declare that race over and Saupold the winner.
Houston Astros
11 of 30
Position Players
| C | Brian McCann | L |
| 1B | Marwin Gonzalez | S |
| 2B | Jose Altuve | R |
| 3B | Alex Bregman | R |
| SS | Carlos Correa | R |
| LF | Derek Fisher | L |
| CF | George Springer | R |
| RF | Josh Reddick | L |
| DH | Evan Gattis | R |
| Bench C | Max Stassi | R |
| Bench INF | J.D. Davis | R |
| Bench OF | Jake Marisnick | R |
The Houston Astros will begin their title defense without Yuli Gurriel, who will have to serve a five-game suspension after he completes his recovery from hand surgery.
His absence creates an opening at first base. While that's one of many positions that 2017 breakout star Marwin Gonzalez can play, it's also an opportunity for J.D. Davis, A.J. Reed or Tyler White to get some playing time. Davis is leading the pack with a 1.179 OPS this spring.
Assuming Gonzalez and Davis will be sharing time at first base, there's also a chance for Derek Fisher to show what he can do as an everyday left fielder.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Justin Verlander | R |
| SP 2 | Dallas Keuchel | L |
| SP 3 | Gerrit Cole | R |
| SP 4 | Lance McCullers | R |
| SP 5 | Charlie Morton | R |
| CL | Ken Giles | R |
| RP | Chris Devenski | R |
| RP | Will Harris | R |
| RP | Joe Smith | R |
| RP | Hector Rondon | R |
| RP | Brad Peacock | R |
| RP | Tony Sipp | L |
| LR | Collin McHugh | R |
The Astros had one of MLB's best starting rotations even before they acquired Gerrit Cole. The trade also bolstered their bullpen, which has room to accommodate both Brad Peacock and Collin McHugh.
The guy who's on thin ice is Tony Sipp, as he's following a disappointing 2017 with a 9.82 ERA in spring training. The Astros will need at least one southpaw in their bullpen, however. Since they're paying Sipp $6 million this year, they might as well give him a shot.
Kansas City Royals
12 of 30
Position Players
| C | Salvador Perez | R |
| 1B | Lucas Duda | L |
| 2B | Whit Merrifield | R |
| 3B | Mike Moustakas | L |
| SS | Alcides Escobar | R |
| LF | Alex Gordon | L |
| CF | Jon Jay | L |
| RF | Jorge Bonifacio | R |
| DH | Jorge Soler | R |
| Bench C | Drew Butera | R |
| Bench INF | Ryan Goins | L |
| Bench INF | Cheslor Cuthbert | R |
| Bench OF | Paulo Orlando | R |
The Kansas City Royals may have lost Eric Hosmer and Lorenzo Cain to free agency but, according to Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports, at least they're bringing back Mike Moustakas.
Taken with the club's signing of Lucas Duda, that means there are no longer starting opportunities for Cheslor Cuthbert and Hunter Dozier. The latter is likely ticketed for the minors. Since he's out of options, the former should get a bench spot as a platoon partner for Moustakas and Duda.
Otherwise, this will be a "let's see what they can do" sort of year in Kansas City. Whit Merrifield must prove his 2017 breakout was the real deal, while Jorge Bonifacio and Jorge Soler must show they can be viable regulars. Paulo Orlando will also see plenty of action alongside Jon Jay.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Danny Duffy | L |
| SP 2 | Ian Kennedy | R |
| SP 3 | Jason Hammel | R |
| SP 4 | Jake Junis | R |
| SP 5 | Nate Karns | R |
| CL | Kelvin Herrera | R |
| RP | Brandon Maurer | R |
| RP | Wily Peralta | R |
| RP | Brian Flynn | L |
| RP | Kevin McCarthy | R |
| RP | Burch Smith | R |
| LR | Brad Keller | R |
With Danny Duffy (elbow surgery) and Nate Karns (thoracic outlet surgery) on track for Opening Day, Kansas City's rotation is set.
There's more intrigue in the bullpen. Kelvin Herrera has only a tenuous grip on the closer role due to his struggles last season and his status as trade bait. And even if the Royals only go with a seven-man pen, there are also as many as four spots up for grabs.
As a lefty who's out of options, Brian Flynn is a fit for one. Kevin McCarthy earned a shot with his solid 2017 performance. Burch Smith and Brad Keller are Rule 5 guys.
Los Angeles Angels
13 of 30
Position Players
| C | Martin Maldonado | R |
| 1B | Luis Valbuena | L |
| 2B | Ian Kinsler | R |
| 3B | Zack Cozart | R |
| SS | Andrelton Simmons | R |
| LF | Justin Upton | R |
| CF | Mike Trout | R |
| RF | Kole Calhoun | L |
| DH | Albert Pujols | R |
| Bench C | Rene Rivera | R |
| Bench INF | Kaleb Cowart | S |
| Bench OF | Chris Young | R |
The Los Angeles Angels still have baseball's best player in the person of Mike Trout. And this year, he has plenty of company in what should be an excellent offensive and defensive lineup.
Perhaps the only question is how the Angels will fill out their bench. Kaleb Cowart deserves a spot based on his defensive versatility. They'll need to find a fourth outfielder if Chris Young is slow to recover from a calf injury. But so far, there's little indication that will be necessary.
Another thing to keep in mind is that this three-man bench will become a four-man bench on days when Shohei Ohtani isn't pitching. His bat is useful like that.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Shohei Ohtani | R |
| SP 2 | Garrett Richards | R |
| SP 3 | Andrew Heaney | L |
| SP 4 | Tyler Skaggs | L |
| SP 5 | Matt Shoemaker | R |
| SP 6 | JC Ramirez | R |
| CL | Greg Holland | R |
| RP | Blake Parker | R |
| RP | Jim Johnson | R |
| RP | Cam Bedrosian | R |
| RP | Keynan Middleton | R |
| RP | Jose Alvarez | L |
| LR | Luke Bard | R |
Angels manager Mike Scioscia confirmed to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick that Ohtani will be part of a six-man rotation to start the year.
That makes sense for Ohtani, who isn't used to pitching every fifth day. It also makes sense for the club's other starters, as they haven't been especially durable in recent years.
Elsewhere, what should stand out is the inclusion of Greg Holland. The Angels would consider him at "the right price," according to Morosi. His price must be approaching the "right" range by this point, and the Angels bullpen would look that much better with him in it.
Los Angeles Dodgers
14 of 30
Position Players
| C | Austin Barnes | R |
| 1B | Cody Bellinger | L |
| 2B | Logan Forsythe | R |
| 3B | Justin Turner | R |
| SS | Corey Seager | L |
| LF | Matt Kemp | R |
| CF | Chris Taylor | R |
| RF | Yasiel Puig | R |
| Bench C | Yasmani Grandal | S |
| Bench INF | Chase Utley | L |
| Bench INF | Kike Hernandez | R |
| Bench OF | Joc Pederson | L |
The Los Angeles Dodgers will split catching duties between Austin Barnes and Yasmani Grandal and second base duties between Logan Forsythe and Chase Utley.
The big question going into camp was what they would do with left field. A slimmed-down Matt Kemp has made his case for regular action with a 1.192 spring OPS. Despite his slow spring, Joc Pederson is the most obvious platoon partner for him.
The victims of that arrangement would include Andrew Toles and Trayce Thompson. Because the latter is out of options, it is possible the Dodgers will keep him around and shorten their bullpen from eight men to seven, at least temporarily.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Clayton Kershaw | L |
| SP 2 | Rich Hill | L |
| SP 3 | Alex Wood | L |
| SP 4 | Kenta Maeda | R |
| SP 5 | Hyun-Jin Ryu | L |
| CL | Kenley Jansen | R |
| RP | Pedro Baez | R |
| RP | Scott Alexander | L |
| RP | Tony Cingrani | L |
| RP | Josh Fields | R |
| RP | Adam Liberatore | L |
| RP | Ross Stripling | R |
| LR | Wilmer Font | R |
Clayton Kershaw will once again lead an excellent starting rotation, and Kenley Jansen will once again lead an excellent bullpen.
The Dodgers bullpen did get an unfortunate curveball when Tom Koehler was struck by a shoulder injury, however, and that will benefit Wilmer Font. He's having a rough spring, but he should make the cut by virtue of being out of options.
Miami Marlins
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Position Players
| C | J.T. Realmuto | R |
| 1B | Justin Bour | L |
| 2B | Starlin Castro | R |
| 3B | Martin Prado | R |
| SS | Miguel Rojas | R |
| LF | Magneuris Sierra | L |
| CF | Cameron Maybin | R |
| RF | Lewis Brinson | R |
| Bench C | Tomas Telis | S |
| Bench INF | Garrett Cooper | R |
| Bench INF | Derek Dietrich | L |
| Bench OF | Scott Van Slyke | R |
The Miami Marlins still employ J.T. Realmuto, Justin Bour, Starlin Castro and Martin Prado, but it must be understood that any of the four could be traded at any time.
For now, though, each is locked into a starting role. So is top prospect Lewis Brinson, who could play either center field or right field alongside Cameron Maybin. Fellow prospect Magneuris Sierra has a strong case for the gig in left field.
Elsewhere, J.T. Riddle's recovery from shoulder surgery opens shortstop for Miguel Rojas. Garrett Cooper and Derek Dietrich should see action as platoon players. So should Scott Van Slyke, who's hitting his way onto the roster with a 1.102 OPS this spring.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Dan Straily | R |
| SP 2 | Jose Urena | R |
| SP 3 | Justin Nicolino | L |
| SP 4 | Sandy Alcantara | R |
| SP 5 | Odrisamer Despaigne | R |
| CL | Brad Ziegler | R |
| RP | Kyle Barraclough | R |
| RP | Junichi Tazawa | R |
| RP | Drew Steckenrider | R |
| RP | Chris O'Grady | L |
| RP | Nick Wittgren | R |
| RP | Tayron Guerrero | R |
| LR | Elieser Hernandez | R |
Dan Straily and Jose Urena are set at the top of Miami's rotation. Justin Nicolino should get a spot by virtue of being out of options. Sandy Alcantara and Odrisamer Despaigne are locking down the other two with strong springs.
The bullpen has already had one spot open up via an injury to Brett Graves. Another could open up if Nick Wittgren isn't fully recovered from elbow surgery in time for Opening Day. For the time being, Wittgren is in and the last spots can go to Tayron Guerrero (out of options) and Elieser Hernandez (Rule 5).
Milwaukee Brewers
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Position Players
| C | Manny Pina | R |
| 1B | Ryan Braun | R |
| 2B | Eric Sogard | L |
| 3B | Travis Shaw | L |
| SS | Orlando Arcia | R |
| LF | Christian Yelich | L |
| CF | Lorenzo Cain | R |
| RF | Domingo Santana | R |
| Bench C | Stephen Vogt | L |
| Bench INF | Eric Thames | L |
| Bench UTIL | Jonathan Villar | S |
| Bench UTIL | Hernan Perez | R |
The Milwaukee Brewers have a roster crunch in the outfield and at first base, where Christian Yelich, Lorenzo Cain, Ryan Braun, Domingo Santana and Eric Thames will have to share at-bats in some way.
Still, there's room on the roster for all of them. The Brewers can also rotate Eric Sogard and Jonathan Villar at second base, while Hernan Perez plays pretty much anywhere he's needed.
One development to keep an eye on is Stephen Vogt's shoulder injury. If that becomes more serious, it'll be a ticket onto the roster for Jett Bandy, who's out of options anyway.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Chase Anderson | R |
| SP 2 | Lance Lynn | R |
| SP 3 | Zach Davies | R |
| SP 4 | Jhoulys Chacin | R |
| SP 5 | Wade Miley | L |
| CL | Corey Knebel | R |
| RP | Jacob Barnes | R |
| RP | Josh Hader | L |
| RP | Boone Logan | L |
| RP | Matt Albers | R |
| RP | Jeremy Jeffress | R |
| RP | J.J. Hoover | R |
| LR | Junior Guerra | R |
The Brewers have been linked to top starters throughout the winter, and they still have a need for significant help in their rotation. Thus, they're as good a fit as anyone for Lance Lynn.
That would cut their rotation openings from two down to one. As it is, Wade Miley is the standout in that race with a 0.00 ERA and an 11-1 K/BB ratio in eight spring innings.
The loser in this scenario would be Junior Guerra, who's been able to keep runs at bay (1.80 ERA) despite giving up 14 hits in 10 innings this spring. Fortunately for him, there's a job for him as a long man in Milwaukee's bullpen.
Minnesota Twins
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Position Players
| C | Jason Castro | L |
| 1B | Joe Mauer | L |
| 2B | Brian Dozier | R |
| 3B | Miguel Sano | R |
| SS | Jorge Polanco | S |
| LF | Eddie Rosario | L |
| CF | Byron Buxton | R |
| RF | Max Kepler | L |
| DH | Logan Morrison | L |
| Bench C | Mitch Garver | R |
| Bench UTIL | Eduardo Escobar | S |
| Bench OF | Robbie Grossman | S |
The Minnesota Twins are returning the same infield and outfield from their surprise postseason run in 2017. The new addition is Logan Morrison, who promises to be an upgrade for the DH slot after blasting a career-high 38 long balls last year.
With Morrison locked into DH, the out-of-options Robbie Grossman is free to be a fourth outfielder. The team could bring along either Eduardo Escobar or Ehire Adrianza as a utility infielder. Escobar is the favorite by default, however, and he's furthering his cause with a strong spring.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Jose Berrios | R |
| SP 2 | Alex Cobb | R |
| SP 3 | Jake Odorizzi | R |
| SP 4 | Kyle Gibson | R |
| SP 5 | Phil Hughes | R |
| CL | Fernando Rodney | R |
| RP | Addison Reed | R |
| RP | Zach Duke | L |
| RP | Taylor Rogers | L |
| RP | Trevor Hildenberger | R |
| RP | Ryan Pressly | R |
| RP | Tyler Kinley | R |
| LR | Anibal Sanchez | R |
Ervin Santana's finger surgery helped lead the Twins to a trade for Jake Odorizzi. With Adalberto Mejia, Phil Hughes and Anibal Sanchez all struggling in their quests to fill two open spaces, the next thing the Twins should do is scoop up Alex Cobb on what's sure to be a discounted rate.
That would presumably result in Hughes getting a shot at the No. 5 spot, with Sanchez moving to the bullpen to pitch in a long relief role. Ryan Pressly (out of options) and Tyler Kinley (Rule 5) are the top candidates for the other two open slots in Minnesota's pen.
New York Mets
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Position Players
| C | Travis d'Arnaud | R |
| 1B | Adrian Gonzalez | L |
| 2B | Asdrubal Cabrera | S |
| 3B | Todd Frazier | R |
| SS | Amed Rosario | R |
| LF | Yoenis Cespedes | R |
| CF | Brandon Nimmo | L |
| RF | Jay Bruce | L |
| Bench C | Kevin Plawecki | R |
| Bench INF | Wilmer Flores | R |
| Bench INF | Jose Reyes | S |
| Bench OF | Juan Lagares | R |
With Michael Conforto out until May, now is Brandon Nimmo's chance to earn playing time in center field.
He's making the most of it with a 1.298 spring OPS. That should earn him the Opening Day nod, with Juan Lagares sliding into a fourth outfielder role that suits him well.
What's not going as well is the New York Mets' experiment with Adrian Gonzalez. He looked finished as a regular in 2017 and isn't boosting his stock with a .519 OPS this spring. Although he'll be at the not-so-hot corner on Opening Day, top prospect Dominic Smith will be breathing down his neck.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Jacob deGrom | R |
| SP 2 | Noah Syndergaard | R |
| SP 3 | Jason Vargas | L |
| SP 4 | Matt Harvey | R |
| SP 5 | Steven Matz | L |
| CL | Jeurys Familia | R |
| RP | A.J. Ramos | R |
| RP | Anthony Swarzak | R |
| RP | Jerry Blevins | L |
| RP | Zack Wheeler | R |
| RP | Hansel Robles | R |
| RP | Paul Sewald | R |
| LR | Rafael Montero | R |
Matt Harvey is looking good in his pursuit for one of the Mets' two open rotation slots. Steven Matz has a 54.00 ERA in his pursuit for the other, yet his potential should win out over his results in the end.
That would push Robert Gsellman and Seth Lugo to the minors, and Zack Wheeler to the bullpen at least until further struggles from Matz become impossible to live with. Since he's out of options, Rafael Montero should end up with the swingman role.
New York Yankees
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Position Players
| C | Gary Sanchez | R |
| 1B | Greg Bird | L |
| 2B | Brandon Drury | R |
| 3B | Miguel Andujar | R |
| SS | Didi Gregorius | L |
| LF | Brett Gardner | L |
| CF | Aaron Hicks | S |
| RF | Aaron Judge | R |
| DH | Giancarlo Stanton | R |
| Bench C | Austin Romine | R |
| Bench INF | Tyler Austin | R |
| Bench INF | Ronald Torreyes | R |
| Bench OF | Jacoby Ellsbury | L |
Brandon Drury will be at either second base or third base for the New York Yankees on Opening Day. With Miguel Andujar mashing his way through spring training with a 1.154 OPS and four homers, it sure seems like he'll claim the hot corner and force Drury to second.
The Yankees will also carry Ronald Torreyes just in case. They'll also carry Jacoby Ellsbury, even though they don't really need him with four really good outfielders in Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, Brett Gardner and Aaron Hicks.
If the Yankees don't go with an eight-man bullpen, there's also room for Tyler Austin to platoon with Greg Bird, at least until the latter proves it's safe to finally remove the training wheels.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Luis Severino | R |
| SP 2 | Masahiro Tanaka | R |
| SP 3 | Sonny Gray | R |
| SP 4 | CC Sabathia | L |
| SP 5 | Jordan Montgomery | L |
| CL | Aroldis Chapman | L |
| RP | David Robertson | R |
| RP | Dellin Betances | R |
| RP | Chad Green | R |
| RP | Tommy Kahnle | R |
| RP | Chasen Shreve | L |
| LR | Adam Warren | R |
There's still room to wonder if the Yankees will make a move for another starter. But for now, the five starters they have are perfectly fine and good to go for the regular season.
Meanwhile, Luis Cessa figures to be the first man in if the Yankees choose to expand their bullpen from seven to eight men. But since their bullpen is overpowered as is and Cessa has an option left, they don't need to go that route.
Oakland Athletics
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Position Players
| C | Bruce Maxwell | L |
| 1B | Matt Olson | L |
| 2B | Jed Lowrie | S |
| 3B | Matt Chapman | R |
| SS | Marcus Semien | R |
| LF | Matt Joyce | L |
| CF | Boog Powell | L |
| RF | Stephen Piscotty | R |
| DH | Khris Davis | R |
| Bench C | Josh Phegley | R |
| Bench UTIL | Chad Pinder | R |
| Bench OF | Jake Smolinski | R |
With Stephen Piscotty on board and Matt Olson and Matt Chapman gearing up for their first full seasons, the Oakland A's are going into 2018 with one of the more underrated lineups in the league.
Center field is the biggest unknown within, and neither Dustin Fowler nor Boog Powell is doing much to bring clarity to the situation. Powell is the healthier and more game-ready of the two, however, so the job will probably be his at least to start.
Another guy to keep an eye on is top prospect Franklin Barreto. He doesn't have a clear avenue to playing time, but he's stating his case for some with a 1.203 OPS this spring.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Kendall Graveman | R |
| SP 2 | Sean Manaea | L |
| SP 3 | Jharel Cotton | R |
| SP 4 | Daniel Mengden | R |
| SP 5 | Paul Blackburn | R |
| CL | Blake Treinen | R |
| RP | Emilio Pagan | R |
| RP | Yusmeiro Petit | R |
| RP | Chris Hatcher | R |
| RP | Ryan Buchter | L |
| RP | Danny Coulombe | L |
| RP | Liam Hendricks | R |
| LR | Raul Alcantara | R |
The best summary of Oakland's starting rotation situation is: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Kendall Graveman and Sean Manaea will be up top, but it's anyone's guess who'll fill the other three slots. Jharel Cotton, Daniel Mengden and Paul Blackburn make the cut here simply because each offers a certain level of potential.
Regarding the bullpen, Santiago Casilla's stock is fading even further by way of a 23.62 spring ERA. That's an opening for Danny Coulombe, who can be a second lefty to go with Ryan Buchter.
Philadelphia Phillies
21 of 30
Position Players
| C | Jorge Alfaro | R |
| 1B | Carlos Santana | S |
| 2B | Cesar Hernandez | S |
| 3B | Maikel Franco | R |
| SS | J.P. Crawford | L |
| LF | Rhys Hoskins | R |
| CF | Odubel Herrera | L |
| RF | Aaron Altherr | R |
| Bench C | Andrew Knapp | S |
| Bench INF | Tommy Joseph | R |
| Bench UTIL | Jesmuel Valentin | S |
| Bench OF | Nick Williams | L |
With the exception of Carlos Santana at first base, the Philadelphia Phillies are prepared to let youth take over their 2018 lineup.
This creates something of a question in right field, where Aaron Altherr and Nick Williams will be looking for playing time. Both should make the final roster, however, and are perfectly situated to share a platoon.
Meanwhile, Tommy Joseph is hitting his way (1.155 OPS) into a pinch-hitting role, while Jesmuel Valentin (.826 OPS) is making a hard push against the out-of-options Pedro Florimon for a utility infielder job.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Aaron Nola | R |
| SP 2 | Jerad Eickhoff | R |
| SP 3 | Vince Velasquez | R |
| SP 4 | Nick Pivetta | R |
| SP 5 | Ben Lively | R |
| CL | Hector Neris | R |
| RP | Pat Neshek | R |
| RP | Tommy Hunter | R |
| RP | Luis Garcia | R |
| RP | Adam Morgan | L |
| RP | Edubray Ramos | R |
| RP | Holby Milner | L |
| LR | Mark Leiter Jr. | R |
The top four slots in Philly's starting rotation are set. Of the pitchers who are gunning for the No. 5 slot, Ben Lively has the experience and the hot spring (3.00 ERA in three starts) to deserve the edge.
Among the competitors for bullpen roles are ol' standbys Francisco Rodriguez and Fernando Abad. Neither has impressed in camp, however. That's an opportunity for Holby Milner and Mark Leiter Jr. to slip into the back end of the depth chart.
Pittsburgh Pirates
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Position Players
| C | Francisco Cervelli | R |
| 1B | Josh Bell | S |
| 2B | Josh Harrison | R |
| 3B | Colin Moran | L |
| SS | Jordy Mercer | R |
| LF | Corey Dickerson | L |
| CF | Starling Marte | R |
| RF | Gregory Polanco | L |
| Bench C | Elias Diaz | R |
| Bench INF | David Freese | R |
| Bench UTIL | Sean Rodriguez | R |
| Bench UTIL | Adam Frazier | L |
| Bench OF | Bryce Brentz | R |
A series of blockbuster trades have thrown the Pittsburgh Pirates' depth chart for quite the loop. And they might not be finished yet, as they could still find a taker for do-it-all maestro Josh Harrison.
In the meantime, their lineup is somewhere between settled and loaded with moving parts.
Colin Moran and Josh Bell will each share time with David Freese. Sean Rodriguez is a righty swinger who can play wherever. Adam Frazier is a lefty swinger who can play wherever. Bryce Brentz is probably expendable but is out of options and useful as a reserve outfielder.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Ivan Nova | R |
| SP 2 | Jameson Taillon | R |
| SP 3 | Chad Kuhl | R |
| SP 4 | Trevor Williams | R |
| SP 5 | Joe Musgrove | R |
| CL | Felipe Rivero | L |
| RP | George Kontos | R |
| RP | A.J. Schugel | R |
| RP | Michael Feliz | R |
| RP | Josh Smoker | L |
| RP | Dovydas Neverauskas | R |
| LR | Jordan Milbrath | R |
There will be an opening at the bottom of Pittsburgh's rotation if Joe Musgrove's aching shoulder lands him on the disabled list. But for now, he's on track to be ready.
The team seems to have only two true openings in its bullpen. Josh Smoker is a fit for one as a second lefty beneath flame-throwing closer Felipe Rivero. As a Rule 5 pick who's having a solid spring, Jordan Milbrath is a solution for the other.
San Diego Padres
23 of 30
Position Players
| C | Austin Hedges | R |
| 1B | Eric Hosmer | L |
| 2B | Carlos Asuaje | L |
| 3B | Chase Headley | S |
| SS | Freddy Galvis | S |
| LF | Jose Pirela | R |
| CF | Manuel Margot | R |
| RF | Wil Myers | R |
| Bench C | A.J. Ellis | R |
| Bench INF | Cory Spangenberg | L |
| Bench INF | Christian Villanueva | R |
| Bench OF | Travis Jankowski | L |
The signing of Eric Hosmer gave the San Diego Padres a brand-new first baseman. It also pushed Wil Myers to the outfield, thereby creating a logjam of players fighting for playing time.
Chief among the competitors are Hunter Renfroe, Franchy Cordero, Matt Szczur and Travis Jankowski. Renfroe and Cordero are the most interesting players of the four but would arguably be wasted in a reserve role. It's a job more befitting of Jankowski, whose glove plays in all three outfield spots.
Elsewhere on the bench will be the versatile Cory Spangenberg and the powerful (and out of options) Christian Villanueva, who has a 1.465 OPS and three homers this spring.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Clayton Richard | L |
| SP 2 | Bryan Mitchell | R |
| SP 3 | Dinelson Lamet | R |
| SP 4 | Luis Perdomo | R |
| SP 5 | Tyson Ross | R |
| CL | Brad Hand | L |
| RP | Kirby Yates | R |
| RP | Craig Stammen | R |
| RP | Phil Maton | R |
| RP | Kazuhisa Makita | R |
| RP | Adam Cimber | R |
| RP | Buddy Baumann | L |
| LR | Chris Young | R |
Veteran right-handers Chris Young and Tyson Ross are locked in a tight battle to be San Diego's No. 5 starter. Between the two, Ross likely has the inside track based on his upside and the fact that he's been used as a starter in all three of his appearances this spring.
That would presumably mean a swingman role for Young. To round out the bullpen, Buddy Baumann fits as a second lefty and Adam Cimber fits as a sleeper relief ace. He's appeared in five games this spring and hasn't been touched in any of them.
San Francisco Giants
24 of 30
Position Players
| C | Buster Posey | R |
| 1B | Brandon Belt | L |
| 2B | Joe Panik | L |
| 3B | Evan Longoria | R |
| SS | Brandon Crawford | L |
| LF | Hunter Pence | R |
| CF | Austin Jackson | R |
| RF | Andrew McCutchen | R |
| Bench C | Nick Hundley | R |
| Bench INF | Pablo Sandoval | S |
| Bench INF | Kelby Tomlinson | R |
| Bench OF | Gorkys Hernandez | R |
| Bench OF | Jarrett Parker | L |
With Andrew McCutchen and Evan Longoria joining Buster Posey, Hunter Pence, Brandon Crawford, Brandon Belt and Joe Panik, the San Francisco Giants lineup certainly isn't short on recognizable names.
There is arguably more name value here than star power, however, so they'll need to keep their bench good and strong.
Gorkys Hernandez and Jarrett Parker are both out of options, so they should make the cut for reserve outfield roles. Kelby Tomlinson will back up Crawford and Panik. Although Pablo Sandoval doesn't have an obvious role to play, the Giants will bring him along and give him one more shot at redemption.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Madison Bumgarner | L |
| SP 2 | Johnny Cueto | R |
| SP 3 | Jeff Samardzija | R |
| SP 4 | Ty Blach | L |
| SP 5 | Chris Stratton | R |
| CL | Mark Melancon | R |
| RP | Tony Watson | L |
| RP | Sam Dyson | R |
| RP | Hunter Strickland | R |
| RP | Cory Gearrin | R |
| RP | Steven Okert | L |
| LR | Chris Heston | R |
The Giants entered camp with big questions looming over the back end of their rotation. Fast forward a few weeks, and Ty Blach and Chris Stratton are looking like the perfect answers.
In the bullpen, the Giants were probably hoping that Rule 5 pick Julian Fernandez would claim a spot and bring his electric fastball with him. Instead, he's suffered a finger injury and been lit up in the two appearances he's made.
Chris Heston is one of the guys who stands to gain from that. He's having a solid spring and generally has the goods to handle a swingman role.
Seattle Mariners
25 of 30
Position Players
| C | Mike Zunino | R |
| 1B | Dan Vogelbach | L |
| 2B | Robinson Cano | L |
| 3B | Kyle Seager | L |
| SS | Jean Segura | R |
| LF | Ichiro Suzuki | L |
| CF | Dee Gordon | L |
| RF | Mitch Haniger | R |
| DH | Nelson Cruz | R |
| Bench C | Mike Marjama | R |
| Bench UTIL | Andrew Romine | S |
| Bench OF | Guillermo Heredia | R |
The injury bug has launched an early attack against the Seattle Mariners. Ben Gamel (oblique) and Ryon Healy (hand) have already been ruled out for Opening Day. Mitch Haniger (hand) and Guillermo Heredia (shoulder) aren't guaranteed to be ready.
But for now, the Mariners aren't saying that either Haniger or Heredia won't be ready. They've also brought in a replacement for Gamel in the person of Ichiro Suzuki, who's an old friend both literally and figuratively.
In other news, Dan Vogelbach's 1.467 spring OPS should be enough to edge Rule 5 pick Mike Ford (.641 OPS) in the race to claim Healy's spot at first base.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Felix Hernandez | R |
| SP 2 | James Paxton | L |
| SP 3 | Mike Leake | R |
| SP 4 | Erasmo Ramirez | R |
| SP 5 | Marco Gonzales | L |
| CL | Edwin Diaz | R |
| RP | Juan Nicasio | R |
| RP | Nick Vincent | R |
| RP | David Phelps | R |
| RP | Marc Rzepczynski | L |
| RP | James Pazos | L |
| RP | Dan Altavilla | R |
| LR | Mike Morin | R |
Seattle's rotation is dealing with its own injuries, including an aching right arm for Felix Hernandez and an aching lat for Erasmo Ramirez.
However, it doesn't seem like either is in danger of being left off the Opening Day roster just yet. That leaves just one spot to be filled. With nine scoreless spring innings and zero options to his name, Marco Gonzales is an easy choice for it.
Regarding the two open spots in Seattle's bullpen, one can go to Dan Altavilla (8-0 K/BB this spring) and another can go to Mike Morin (out of options).
St. Louis Cardinals
26 of 30
Position Players
| C | Yadier Molina | R |
| 1B | Jose Martinez | R |
| 2B | Kolten Wong | L |
| 3B | Jedd Gyorko | R |
| SS | Paul DeJong | R |
| LF | Marcell Ozuna | R |
| CF | Tommy Pham | R |
| RF | Dexter Fowler | S |
| Bench C | Carson Kelly | R |
| Bench INF | Greg Garcia | L |
| Bench UTIL | Yairo Munoz | R |
| Bench OF | Harrison Bader | R |
The St. Louis Cardinals' ideal lineup includes Matt Carpenter in the middle. Unfortunately, the veteran OBP specialist has a back injury that seems bad enough to land him on the DL for the start of the season.
If so, Jose Martinez will have to step into Carpenter's shoes at first base. That, in turn, would open a spot on the bench for a righty swinger with a versatile glove.
Assuming he makes a strong recovery from a left shoulder issue, Yairo Munoz can handle it. He's played in eight games this spring and has put up a 1.040 OPS.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Carlos Martinez | R |
| SP 2 | Michael Wacha | R |
| SP 3 | Adam Wainwright | R |
| SP 4 | Miles Mikolas | R |
| SP 5 | Luke Weaver | R |
| CL | Luke Gregerson | R |
| RP | Tyler Lyons | L |
| RP | Brett Cecil | L |
| RP | Dominic Leone | R |
| RP | Bud Norris | R |
| RP | Matt Bowman | R |
| RP | Sam Tuivailala | R |
| LR | John Gant | R |
The Cardinals might be feeling a little nervous about their experiment with Miles Mikolas, who's returned from Japan to get lit up in both of his spring outings.
Nonetheless, a rotation job is as good as his. Luke Weaver should round things out, as he's risen to the challenge of proving himself with a 1.80 ERA through five spring innings.
Sam Tuivailala, who's out of options, has put a bullpen job well within his sights with three scoreless appearances this spring. With 10 strikeouts and no walks in 8.1 spring innings, John Gant also has a firm grip on a job.
Tampa Bay Rays
27 of 30
Position Players
| C | Wilson Ramos | R |
| 1B | C.J. Cron | R |
| 2B | Brad Miller | L |
| 3B | Matt Duffy | R |
| SS | Adeiny Hechavarria | R |
| LF | Mallex Smith | L |
| CF | Kevin Kiermaier | L |
| RF | Carlos Gomez | R |
| DH | Denard Span | L |
| Bench C | Jesus Sucre | R |
| Bench INF | Joey Wendle | L |
| Bench INF | Christian Arroyo | R |
| Bench UTIL | Daniel Robertson | R |
The big question here is whether Brad Miller will be recovered from his toe injury in time for Opening Day. Fortunately for the Tampa Bay Rays, a few weeks should be enough for that storyline to have a happy ending.
In any event, they might not want to push Miller too hard early in the season. That's an excuse to bring along top prospect Christian Arroyo, who's showing well with a .350 average and .835 OPS this spring.
Besides which, they might as well carry a four-man bench in light of their plans for their pitching staff.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Chris Archer | R |
| SP 2 | Blake Snell | L |
| SP 3 | Jake Faria | R |
| SP 4 | Nathan Eovaldi | R |
| CL | Alex Colome | R |
| RP | Daniel Hudson | R |
| RP | Sergio Romo | R |
| RP | Dan Jennings | L |
| RP | Chaz Roe | R |
| RP | Jose Alvarado | L |
| RP | Andrew Kittredge | R |
| LR | Matt Andriese | R |
According to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, the Rays decided to open 2018 with a four-man starting rotation as soon as they traded Jake Odorizzi to Minnesota.
One reason they can get away with that is because they have eight off days in the first 38 days of the season. Another is that they have Matt Andriese, whose middle name might as well be "Swingman."
Elsewhere in the Rays pen, Chaz Roe (out of options), Jose Alvarado (second lefty) and Andrew Kittredge (strong 2017) each has a strong argument for being let in.
Texas Rangers
28 of 30
Position Players
| C | Robinson Chirinos | R |
| 1B | Joey Gallo | L |
| 2B | Rougned Odor | L |
| 3B | Adrian Beltre | R |
| SS | Elvis Andrus | R |
| LF | Wille Calhoun | L |
| CF | Delino DeShields Jr. | R |
| RF | Nomar Mazara | L |
| DH | Shin-Soo Choo | L |
| Bench C | Juan Centeno | L |
| Bench UTIL | Jurickson Profar | S |
| Bench OF | Carlos Tocci | R |
The Texas Rangers' lineup has an unsolved mystery: Is Willie Calhoun viable as an everyday left fielder?
His bat produced a .931 OPS and 31 homers in the minors last year, so it's plenty good for the role. His glove? Not as much. He comes with a reputation as a poor defender, and he's looked the part this spring.
Nevertheless, it's a safe bet that the Rangers will come down on the side of wanting to see what Calhoun can do in the batter's box. The main victim would be Ryan Rua, as there wouldn't be room for him on the bench alongside Jurickson Profar (out of options) and Carlos Tocci (Rule 5).
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Cole Hamels | L |
| SP 2 | Doug Fister | R |
| SP 3 | Matt Moore | L |
| SP 4 | Bartolo Colon | R |
| SP 5 | Mike Minor | L |
| SP 6 | Matt Bush | R |
| CL | Tim Lincecum | R |
| RP | Jake Diekman | L |
| RP | Keone Kela | R |
| RP | Alex Claudio | L |
| RP | Tony Barnette | R |
| RP | Chris Martin | R |
| LR | Jesse Chavez | R |
Despite Cole Hamels' insistence (per MLB.com's Dave Sessions) that it's "not part of baseball," the Rangers have indeed been kicking around the idea of a six-man rotation.
That would mean an opportunity for Bartolo Colon to enter his 21st major league season in a familiar role, as well as for Matt Bush to move out of the bullpen.
If Bush is anointed as a starter, the Rangers will have additional freedom to experiment with Tim Lincecum as their closer. Jesse Chavez, a fellow late arrival to camp, is the best choice to handle a long relief role in support of the team's patchwork rotation.
Toronto Blue Jays
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Position Players
| C | Russell Martin | R |
| 1B | Justin Smoak | S |
| 2B | Devon Travis | R |
| 3B | Josh Donaldson | R |
| SS | Aledmys Diaz | R |
| LF | Curtis Granderson | L |
| CF | Kevin Pillar | R |
| RF | Randal Grichuk | R |
| DH | Kendrys Morales | S |
| Bench C | Luke Maile | R |
| Bench INF | Yangervis Solarte | S |
| Bench INF/OF | Steve Pearce | R |
The bad news is the Toronto Blue Jays don't expect veteran shortstop Troy Tulowitzki to be recovered from a bone spur in his heel in time for Opening Day.
The good news is they have more than enough depth to cover for his absence.
Aledmys Diaz will probably handle the bulk of the action at shortstop, although Yangervis Solarte should also see his fair share. Meanwhile in the outfield, Steve Pearce should get plenty of at-bats as a platoon partner for Curtis Granderson.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | J.A. Happ | L |
| SP 2 | Marco Estrada | R |
| SP 3 | Aaron Sanchez | R |
| SP 4 | Jaime Garcia | L |
| SP 5 | Joe Biagini | R |
| CL | Roberto Osuna | R |
| RP | Ryan Tepera | R |
| RP | Danny Barnes | R |
| RP | Aaron Loup | L |
| RP | Seung Hwan Oh | R |
| RP | Tyler Clippard | R |
| RP | John Axford | R |
| LR | Carlos Ramirez | R |
Marcus Stroman would be leading Toronto's rotation under ordinary circumstances, but he has an aching shoulder that's threatening to put him on the DL for the start of the season.
That would be Joe Biagini's ticket into the rotation, and it would make it all the more easy for veteran righties Tyler Clippard and John Axford to earn roles in the bullpen. Assuming his own shoulder soreness subsides, there should also be room for Carlos Ramirez.
Washington Nationals
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Position Players
| C | Matt Wieters | S |
| 1B | Ryan Zimmerman | R |
| 2B | Howie Kendrick | R |
| 3B | Anthony Rendon | R |
| SS | Trea Turner | R |
| LF | Victor Robles | R |
| CF | Michael A. Taylor | R |
| RF | Bryce Harper | L |
| Bench C | Miguel Montero | L |
| Bench INF | Matt Adams | L |
| Bench UTIL | Wilmer Difo | S |
| Bench UTIL | Matt Reynolds | R |
| Bench OF | Brian Goodwin | L |
The Washington Nationals already had reason to worry about Daniel Murphy and Adam Eaton, who are making slow recoveries from knee injuries this spring. Now they also have to worry about Michael A. Taylor, who has some tightness in his right side.
Taylor is the best bet of the three to be ready for Opening Day. If Murphy and Eaton need to start on the DL, Howie Kendrick stands to see the bulk of the action at second base, while top prospect Victor Robles figures to get a chance in left field.
Meanwhile, veteran backstop Miguel Montero is edging out Pedro Severino, who has an option remaining, for the right to share time with Matt Wieters behind the plate.
Pitchers
| SP 1 | Max Scherzer | R |
| SP 2 | Stephen Strasburg | R |
| SP 3 | Jake Arrieta | R |
| SP 4 | Gio Gonzalez | L |
| SP 5 | Tanner Roark | R |
| CL | Sean Doolittle | L |
| RP | Ryan Madson | R |
| RP | Brandon Kintzler | R |
| RP | Enny Romero | L |
| RP | Shawn Kelley | R |
| RP | Trevor Gott | R |
| LR | A.J. Cole | R |
The Nationals don't need Jake Arrieta, per se. But they have a history with Scott Boras and a fondness for making big splashes, so they make as much sense as anyone to sign the former Cy Young Award winner.
If they do, A.J. Cole will cease fighting to be the team's No. 5 starter and will instead be penciled into a long relief role.
With a 6-0 K/BB ratio in four spring appearances, Sammy Solis is making a strong push to also end up in the bullpen. But since the Nats don't need a third lefty, Trevor Gott should be able to turn his own strong spring into a bullpen role.
Spring stats courtesy of MLB.com, and are current through March 8. Other stats courtesy of Baseball Reference and FanGraphs. Special thanks to Roster Resource for help with player statuses.
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