Position Battle Tracker (AL CENTRAL)

last updated 3/27/11 10:36 AM PST
by Jason Martinez

Chicago White Sox
Third Base
Brent Morel (named starter) vs Mark Teahen (out) vs Dayan Viciedo (out)

Tale of the Tape
Morel: 23 years old, $414K, .322/.359/.480 in 490 AB's, 8 SB (AAA/AA)
Teahen: 29 years old, $4.75M salary, .258/.327/.382 in 233 AB's
Viciedo: 22 years old, $1.25M salary, .308/.321/.519 in 104 AB's

Analysis: Morel ended the season as the starting third baseman but the free-swinging Viciedo also showed enough to be given strong consideration for the job. With plenty of veteran firepower throughout the lineup, the team can afford to go with one of the youngsters at the bottom of the order. If neither is ready to take over as the full-time third baseman, however, Teahen would get the call. He'd likely get the majority of AB's vs RHP's with Viciedo playing vs LHP's and Morel heading back to the minors.  UPDATE 1/21 - When Manager Ozzie Guillen was recently asked if Morel would be the starter at 3B, Guillen responded, "That would be a slap in the face of Teahen." Accordingly, I have updated the projections. This also increases the chances that Viciedo will make the team as a right-handed complement to Teahen. UPDATE 1/21 - Guillen now slapped Teahen in the face by saying 3B is Morel's to lose. In all fairness, I think Guillen meant that it would be a slap in the face to Teahen if he didn't have a chance to compete for the job. He'll get a chance but Morel will have to struggle badly for Teahen to have any shot. Sorry for any confusion. UPDATE 3/10 - Viciedo is out of the race after fracturing his right thumb. He'll be out 3-4 weeks and then likely head to the minors for some AB's. Meanwhile, Teahen is having a terrific camp (9-for-17, 2 2B, HR, 7 RBI, 6 BB) while Morel has yet to do much at the plate (3-for-17, 2 2B) UPDATE 3/20 - Morel has been named the starter

Closer
Matt Thornton (named closer) vs Chris Sale (out)

Tale of the Tape
Thornton: 34 years old, $3M salary, 5-4, 2.67 ERA, 60.2 IP, 41 H, 20 BB, 81 K, 8 Sv, 21 holds
Sale: 22 years old, $414K salary, 2-1, 1.93 ERA, 23.1 IP, 15 H, 10 BB, 32 K, 4 Sv, 2 holds

Analysis: Thornton looks to be the front-runner after another dominating season that included eight saves. Crain was an effective setup man in 2010 who throws in the mid-90's but he has never been a closer and has exactly one less save (3) in his career than the rookie Sale recorded (4) in 21 relief appearances late last season. Along with Sergio Santos, this foursome will make it tough on White Sox opponents late in games regardless of who is closing. UPDATE 3/15 - It's down to Thornton and Sale, although Thornton appears to have a pretty good hold on the job with Sale's recent struggles. UPDATE 3/19 - Guillen has named Thornton the closer to start the season.

Cleveland Indians
Third Base
Jack Hannahan (named starter) vs Jayson Nix (out) vs Luis Valbuena (out) vs Jason Donald (out)   

Tale of the Tape
Hannahan: 31 years old, $500K salary, .237/.340/.374 in 334 ABs (AAA)
Nix: 28 years old, $440K salary, .224/.281/.396 in 331 ABs
Valbuena: 25 years old, $425K salary: .193/.273/.258 in 275 ABs
Donald: 26 years old, $440K salary, .253/.312/.378 in 296 ABs, 5 SB

Analysis: Nix is the leading candidate at the hot corner after hitting 13 HR's in 76 games after being claimed off waivers from the White Sox in June. But he also struck out 75 times while posting just a .283 OBP. Goedert, who was added to the 40-man roster last month, could have a shot with a strong performance in Spring Training but he doesn't appear to be very good defensively (.923 fielding pct in '10). They could be on the lookout for a veteran stopgap (i.e. Pedro Feliz or Felipe Lopez) until Chisehnall is ready. Adding Chisenhall to the competition is a bit of a stretch but he is the team's top hitting prospect and this is a rebuilding year with the Tigers, Twins, and White Sox expected to dominate the division. So why not give him a full year in the big leagues so he's better prepared for 2012 when the team might be more competitive? Like I said, it's a stretch. He will likely be up later in the season after a few months worth of Triple-A at-bats. UPDATE 2/11 - The signing of Orlando Cabrera pushes Donald backwards in the second base competition but don't count him out of the battle for the starting third base job. UPDATE 3/6 - Chisenhall has been told he'll start the season in Triple-A, according to Jordan Bastian of MLB.com. Meanwhile, Jon Heyman of SI.com says the plan is for Donald to play 3B until Chisenhall is ready. UPDATE 3/7 - Goedert, who was a long shot anyways, is out for a few weeks with a strained oblique. So it comes down to Donald and Nix. UPDATE 3/16 - With Nix just 2-for-19 and falling almost completely out of the picture, Hannahan has emerged as a contender for the third base job with 11 hits in 28 ABs this spring. Donald, who has missed time with a bone bruise in his left hand, will need to get back on the field soon if he wants to hold off Hannahan. UPDATE 3/19 - Donald will start the season on the DL with a broken hand. Hannahan appears to be the favorite although Nix is still in the mix and Valbuena has gotten playing time at third base in recent days. UPDATE 3/28 - By process of elimination, Hannahan is the starter. None of the other candidates have made the 25-man roster.

#5 starter

Josh Tomlin (named starter) vs David Huff (out) vs Jeanmar Gomez (out)  

Tale of the Tape

Tomlin: 26 years old, $425K salary, 6-4, 4.56 ERA, 73 IP, 72 H, 19 BB, 43 K in 12 starts

Huff: 26 years old, $440K salary, 2-11, 6.21 ERA, 79.2 IP, 101 H, 34 BB, 37 K in 15 starts

Gomez: 23 years old, $414K salary, 4-5, 4.68 ERA, 57.2 IP, 73 H, 22 BB, 34 K in 11 starts

Analysis: Lots of options, although Tomlin and Carrasco don't appear to have too many serious threats for the last two rotation spots. Gomez was solid in 11 starts and Reyes was a promising prospect before his career was derailed by injuries the past two seasons. Huff is likely to get another look but he's coming off of a terrible season. Kluber and McAllister could get the call sometime during the season, although not likely before June. White appears to be the organization's top pitching prospect after a very good pro debut in 2010 so the team might want to take a long look at him this spring. As with the third base competition, the team could add an affordable veteran or two to the competition before the start of Spring Training. UPDATE 1/4 - Martinez is the newest contender after being acquired from Pittsburgh. He appears to have as good of a chance as the rest of the underdogs. UPDATE 2/19 - Manager Manny Acta says Carrasco is a lock for the #4 spot while Laffey will also compete for the last spot in the rotation. UPDATE 3/2 - Laffey was traded to Seattle. Guess that means he's not gonna be in Cleveland's rotation. UPDATE 3/5 - It looks like a three-horse race with Tomlin having the edge at this point, according to Jordan Bastian of MLB.com. UPDATE 3/25 - By process of elimination Tomlin wins the job as Huff and Gomez were optioned to the minors this morning.

Detroit Tigers 

Second Base

Will Rhymes (named starter) vs Danny Worth (out) vs Scott Sizemore (out) 

Tale of the Tape

Rhymes: 28 years old, $425K salary, .304/.350/.414 in 191 AB's

Sizemore: 26 years old, $425K, .224/.296/.336 in 143 AB's  

Worth: 25 years old, $425K salary, .255/.295/.358 in 106 AB's  

Analysis: With word that Manager Jim Leyland doesn't think veteran Carlos Guillen will be ready for the start of the season (recovery from microfracture knee surgery), the second base competition is wide open. Rhymes hit over .300 while holding down the job during the second half of the season so he should go into Spring Training as the favorite. Sizemore was the Opening Day second baseman in 2010 but was sent back to the minors in mid-May after a 4-for-34 slump. He did recover by posting an .850 OPS in Triple-A and will get another crack at a big league job in 2011. Worth is primarily a shortstop but started eight games at second base in his rookie season. His offensive ceiling is much lower than the others but he could get consideration if Rhymes and Sizemore struggle in camp. UPDATE 3/22 - Sizemore was optioned to the minors so Rhymes appears to be the starter to begin the season. 

Kansas City Royals
2B/3B
Mike Aviles (lock) vs Chris Getz (lock) vs Wilson Betemit (long shot) vs Mike Moustakas (out)

Tale of the Tape

Aviles: 30 years old, $475K, .304/.335/.413 in 424 AB's, 14 SB
Getz: 27 years old, $440K, .237/.302/.277 in 224 AB's, 15 SB
Betemit: 29 years old, $1M salary, .297/.378/.511 in 278 AB's 

Moustakas: 22 years old, $414K salary, .322/.369/.630 in 484 AB's (AAA/AA)

Analysis: This competition was analyzed by me over at RotoAuthority. Click here to read the article. UPDATE 3/19 - Aviles and Getz are having strong camps while Betemit is not. Moustakas has already been reassigned to the minors so the picture has become very clear. Aviles at 3B, Getz at 2B, Betemit on the bench, Mous in Triple-A for, most likely, the first two months of the season. UPDATE 3/25 - Getz, who will be the starting 2B, is being discussed by manager Eric Wedge as a possible #2 hitter in the lineup behind Aviles. 

LF/CF/RF
Melky Cabrera (lock) vs Alex Gordon (lock) vs Jeff Francoeur (lock) vs Lorenzo Cain (out) vs Mitch Maier (underdog)

Tale of the Tape
Cabrera: 26 years old, $1.25M salary, .255/.317/.354 in 458 AB's, 7 SB
Francoeur: 27 years old, $2.5M salary, .249/.300/.383 in 454 AB's, 8 SB
Gordon: 27 years old, arb. eligible (2nd time), .215/.315/.355 in 242 AB's

Cain: 24 years old, $440K salary, .306/.348/.415 in 147 AB's, 7 SB

Maier: 28 years old, $440K salary, .263/.333/.375 in 373 AB's, 3 SB

Analysis: The Royals may have been the only teams in the majors willing to give Cabrera and Francoeur starting jobs this offseason. In a rebuilding season, giving the veterans a chance to rebuild their value might not be a bad idea. It's a few million bucks down the drain if it doesn't work out but both players were considered very good ballplayers just a few years ago. This is a make-or-break season for Gordon, who like Cabrera and Francoeur, has struggled at the big league level after a promising start to his career. There will be plenty of competition this spring. Cain looks to be the team's centerfielder of the future while Maier and Blanco are still trying to prove that they are more than just solid reserves. Lough is coming off of a very productive Triple-A season in which he had 15 2B's, 12 3B's, 11 HR's, and 14 SB's. UPDATE 3/19 - Cabrera, Gordon, and Maier are having huge camps while Francouer is stinking it up, quite frankly (4-for-38). Cain has also been solid (9-for-32, 3 2B, 6 BB) but I still have a feeling the Royals are committed to sticking with Francouer, at least to start the season. UPDATE 3/27 - Cain was optioned the minors.


Minnesota Twins

#4 and #5 starter

Scott Baker (named starter) vs Kevin Slowey (out)  

Tale of the Tape

Baker: 29 years old, $5M salary, 12-9, 4.49 ERA, 170.1 IP, 186 H, 43 BB, 148 K
Slowey: 26 years old, arb. eligible (1st time), 13-6, 4.45 ERA, 155.2 IP, 172 H, 29 BB, 116 K

Analysis: With the return of Carl Pavano, the Twins will head into Spring Training with six starters.  A decision will have to be made if all six are healthy at the beginning of April. I have Blackburn as the odd man out based on his disappointing 2010 season but Duensing has proven success in the 'pen (1.80 ERA in 40 relief appearances in '10) and could be the best option to get the ball to Capps and Nathan late in games. So what if both pitch well in the spring? Well, Slowey better make sure he's on top of his game just in case that does happen. UPDATE 3/2 - Manager Ron Gardenhire says Duensing will be in the rotation. The competition for the last two spots is between Baker, Slowey, and Blackburn. Baker underwent surgery this offseason to remove a bone chip in his elbow. He appears to be on track, however, for the start of the season and should claim one of the two spots. UPDATE 3/5 - Gardenhire says Blackburn is in if he's healthy, leaving Baker and Slowey fighting for the last spot. UPDATE 3/22 - Gardenhire announced Baker will be in the rotation and Slowey will pitch out of the bullpen.

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Position Battle Tracker (AL WEST)

last updated 03/26/11 5:08 PM PST
by Jason Martinez

Los Angeles Angels
Catcher
Jeff Mathis (heavy favorite) vs Bobby Wilson (underdog) vs Hank Conger (long shot)

Tale of the Tape
Mathis: 28 years old, $1.7M salary, .195/.219/.278 in 205 AB's
Wilson: 27 years old, $425K salary, .229/.288/.417 in 96 AB's
Conger: 23 years old, $414K salary, .300/.385/.463 in 387 AB's (AAA)

Analysis: The Angels tendered Mathis a contract and will pay him nearly $2M in 2011. The Angels tendered Mathis a contract and will pay him nearly $2M in 2011. Considering his .497 OPS (not a misprint), it's safe to say that Mathis is getting paid well for his defensive skills and ability to handle a pitching staff. Wilson probably isn't good enough offensively to beat him out but Conger is another story. He profiles as an above-average hitter in the big leagues but he'll have to improve defensively before Manager Mike Scioscia trusts him behind the plate on a regular basis. UPDATE 3/11 - While Conger has struggled this spring (3-for-20), Mathis is doing what is necessary to hold off the competition with five hits in 16 ABs. However, Wilson is making a strong case with 11 hits in 19 ABs. UPDATE 3/28 - With injuries to multiple players and the team expected to carry an extra player on the bench to start the season, it looks like all three could be on the 25-man roster.  
 
Third Base 
Maicer Izturis (favorite) vs Alberto Callaspo (underdog) vs Brandon Wood (underdog) vs

Tale of the Tape
Izturis: 30 years old, $3.1M salary, .250/.321/.363 in 212 AB's, 7 SB
Callaspo: 27 years old, arbitration eligible (1st time), .265/.302/.374 in 562 AB's, 5 SB
Wood: 26 years old, $440K salary, .146/.174/.208 in 226 AB's

Analysis: Wood and Callaspo are not only fighting for the starting third base job, the loser is likely to find himself off the roster. Izturis is a solid utility infielder but might prove at the end of spring training to be the best everyday option at the hot corner. In case you're not familiar, Wood put up MVP-type numbers in the minors but has fizzled in the big leagues. He'll be just 26 on Opening Day, but he's out of options and likely out of chances after a season in which he was outhit by many pitchers. In the case of Callaspo, he's a proven hitter in the majors (.300-11-73 in '09) but did not come close to that last season, especially after being acquired by the Angels in July. He was tendered a contract in his first arbitration-eligible year, so the Halos haven't given up on him just yet. UPDATE 2/23 - According to Mike DiGiovanna of the LA Times, Manager Mike Scioscia is leaning towards a lineup that includes Izturis as the leadoff man. It doesn't mean he'll be in there everyday - he has never played in more than 114 games in any season and spent three separate stints on the DL last year - but his ability to hit leadoff will likely give him the majority of starts at the position. UPDATE 3/19 - With Kendrys Morales expected to start the season on the DL, an opportunity has opened up for Wood on the bench. Not only is he taking full advantage, he's making a late push for the third base job with a 7-for-19 (2 HR, 2 2B, 3B) performance over the past week. This has to be a pleasant surprise for the Angels. Wood was all but gone after a 3-for-26 start to the spring.

Closer
Fernando Rodney (favorite) vs Hisanori Takahashi (underdog) vs Kevin Jepsen (underdog) vs Jordan Walden (underdog) vs Scott Downs (out)

Tale of the Tape
Rodney: 34 years old, $5.5M salary, 4-3, 4.24 ERA, 68 IP, 70 H, 35 BB, 53 K, 14 Sv, 21 holds
Downs: 35 years old, app. $5M salary, 5-5, 2.64 ERA, 61.1 IP, 47 H, 14 BB, 48 K, 26 holds
Takahashi: 35 years old, $3.8M salary, 10-6, 3.61 ERA, 122 IP, 116 H, 43 BB, 114 K, 8 Sv
Jepsen: 26 years old, $440K salary, 2-4, 3.97 ERA, 59 IP, 54 H, 29 BB, 61 K, 27 holds
Walden: 23 years old, $414K salary, 0-1, 2.35 ERA, 15.1 IP, 13 H, 7 BB, 23 K, Sv, 6 holds

Analysis: This competition was analyzed by me over at RotoAuthority. Click here to read the article. UPDATE 3/19 - Downs will start the season on the DL with a broken foot.

Oakland A's
#5 Starter
Brandon McCarthy (named starter) vs Bobby Cramer (out) vs Tyson Ross (out) vs Josh Outman (out) vs Rich Harden (out)

Tale of the Tape
McCarthy: 27 years old, $1M salary, 4-2, 3.36 ERA, 56.1 IP, 51 H, 11 BB, 44 K in 11 games (AAA)
Harden: 29 years old, $1.5M, 5-5, 5.58 ERA, 92 IP, 91 H, 62 BB, 75 K in 20 games
Cramer: 31 years old, $425K salary, 2-1, 3.04 ERA, 23.2 IP, 20 H, 6 BB, 13 K
Ross: 23 years old, $425K salary, 1-4, 5.49 ERA, 39.1 IP, 39 H, 20 BB, 32 K in 26 games

Analysis: This competition was analyzed by me over at RotoAuthority. Click here to read the article. UPDATE 3/12 - Harden's lat injury that has kept him out of camp will not allow him to stretch out enough to be a starter by the first week of the season. McCarthy has pitched well so far and still appears to be the frontrunner. UPDATE 3/20 - Outman has been optioned to the minors. UPDATE 3/26 - McCarthy has been named the team's #5 starter.

Seattle Mariners
Second Base

Brendan Ryan (named starting SS) vs Adam Kennedy vs Dustin Ackley vs Luis Rodriguez 

Tale of the Tape

Ryan: 29 years old, arbitration eligible (1st time), .223/.279/.294 in 439 AB's, 11 SB
Kennedy: 35 years old, $500K salary, .249/.327/.327 in 342 AB's, 14 SB

Ackley: 23 years old, $414K salary, .267/.368/.407 in 501 AB's, 10 SB (AAA/AA)

Rodriguez: 30 years old, $500K salary, .293/.364/.493 in 345 AB's (AAA)

Analysis: Ryan is an above-average defender who has shown an ability to be an average hitter. He is coming off of a horrible offensive season in 2010, however, when he couldn't surpass the .300 mark in OBP or SLG. Providing offense shouldn't be a problem for Ackley, though. It's his defense that is questionable at this point. Some think it's good enough. Some think he'll need to change positions. Regardless, he'll likely start the season in the minors where the M's will have some more time to evaluate. If Ryan doesn't show much at the plate and the plan is for Ackley to start in the minors, then Rodriguez starts to enter the picture. He is coming off of his best offensive minor league season, by far, with 16 HR's and 56 RBI's in 94 games. It was in Triple-A, though, so you can't get too excited. Still, if he has a much better spring than Ryan, he has a chance to make the team. UPDATE 1/10 - Add Kennedy to the mix, probably ahead of Ackley and Rodriguez in the race. He's coming off of a bad year but might have been at his best just two season ago when he hit .289 with 11 HR's, 63 RBI's, and 20 SB's for Oakland. UPDATE 3/12 - Manager Eric Wedge said that Ryan and Jack Wilson will be the starters at the middle infield spots, although there is a possibility that Wilson plays second and Ryan plays shortstop. UPDATE 3/22 - Wedge announced that Wilson will play second and Ryan will play shortstop. 

Left Field
Milton Bradley (slight favorite) vs  Michael Saunders  (slight underdog) vs Mike Carp (out)

Tale of the Tape
Bradley: 32 years old, $675K salary, .205/.292/.348 in 244 AB's, 8 SB
Saunders: 24 years old, $440K salary, .211/.295/.367 in 289 AB's, 6 SB
Carp: 24 years old, $414K salary, .257/.328/.516 in 409 AB's (AAA)

Analysis: Jack Cust wasn't brought on board to sit on the bench and he's not particularly good in the outfield, so he's likely to get the majority of time at the DH spot. That leaves one outfield spot up for grabs between Saunders, Bradley, and Carp. Aside from a productive month of July, Saunders struggled at the plate in 2010. He should still become a pretty good hitter and will get every chance to prove himself in spring training, but he's competing against Bradley, who will have much to prove after his worst season in 10 years, and Carp, who is trying to break into the big leagues after a 29-HR season in Triple-A. I'm not sure why Bradley's production dropped so much the past two seasons but, temper tantrums aside, there weren't many better hitters in 2007-08. If he shows any glimpse of returning to that form, it will be good news for the M's and bad news for Saunders. UPDATE 3/10 - Bradley has the lead in this competition, according to GM Jack Zduriencik. UPDATE 3/14 - Carp was optioned to the minors but he was a bit of a long shot anyways, especially with Bradley's impressive spring. UPDATE 3/28 - With Franklin Gutierrez expected to start the season on the DL, Saunders could play center field with Bradley in left. Presumably, the competition would extend into the regular season with one of the two the odd man out once Gutierrez returns.

#4 and #5 Starter
Michael Pineda (names starter) vs Luke French (out) vs David Pauley (out)

Tale of the Tape
Pineda: 22 years old, $414K, 11-4, 3.36 ERA, 139.1 IP, 121 H, 34 BB, 154 K in 25 starts (AAA/AA)
French: 25 years old, $414K salary, 5-7, 4.83 ERA, 87.2 IP, 88 H, 29 BB, 37 K in 16 games
Pauley: 27 years old, $440K, 4-9, 4.07 ERA, 90.2 IP, 89 H, 30 BB, 51 K in 19 games

Analysis: French has been outstanding in Triple-A over the past two seasons and held his own in 13 starts with the M's in 2010 so he has a good shot of filling one of the two openings. If healthy, Bedard should occupy the other spot. As mentioned earlier in the Oakland #5 Starter battle between McCarthy and Harden, that is one big IF. Bedard was nearly back from shoulder surgery late last season but was shut down again with a bone spur in his left AC joint. He'll give it another shot in spring training after re-signing earlier this month. If Bedard isn't ready, Pauley would be the safe choice to step into the #5 spot. At some point in 2011, though unlikely for the beginning of the season, Pineda should join the rotation. The 21 year-old has emerged as the top pitching prospect in the organization but he's likely to be eased into the mix, having thrown a career-high 139.1 innings in 2010. UPDATE 3/12 - According to Jim Bowden of FoxSports.com, who recently had conversations with manager Eric Wedge and Zduriencik, Bedard and Pineda will be the 4th and 5th starters. UPDATE 3/14 - The battle for the 5th start isn't over but we know that the Mariners are strongly considering breaking camp with Pineda on the roster. If not, French will likely be the 5th starter. UPDATE 3/28 - French was optioned to the minors, meaning Pineda has won the job. Pauley is likely to pitch out of the bullpen.

Texas Rangers

#5 Starter (*extra spot needs to be filled with Tommy Hunter starting on DL)

Derek Holland (named starter) vs Matt Harrison (named starter) vs Alexi Ogando (favorite) vs David Bush (out) vs Michael Kirkman (even) vs Neftali Feliz (will remain in bullpen) vs Scott Feldman (out)

Tale of the Tape

Holland: 24 years old, $440K salary, 3-4, 4.08 ERA, 57.1 IP, 55 H, 24 BB, 54 K in 14 games
Bush: 31 years old, $1M salary, 8-13, 4.54 ERA, 174.1 IP, 198 H, 65 BB, 107 K in 32 games
Kirkman: 24 years old, $414K salary, 13-3, 3.09 ERA, 131 IP, 115 H, 68 BB, 130 K in 24 games (AAA)
Feliz: 22 years old, $440K salary, 4-3, 2.73 ERA, 69.1 IP, 43 H, 18 BB, 71 K, 40 Sv

Harrison: 25 years old, $414K salary, 3-2, 4.71 ERA, 78.1 IP, 80 H, 39 BB, 46 K in 37 games

Feldman: 28 years old, $4.4M salary, 7-11, 5.48 ERA, 141.1 IP, 181 H, 45 BB, 75 K in 29 games

Analysis: Holland is, by far, the most talented of the group and should be ready to lock down a spot in the rotation. There are some interesting names in the mix ready to challenge him, though. Feldman is a former 17-game winner who will be trying to bounce back after struggling last season. He's questionable for the start of Spring Training after undergoing microfracture surgery on his right knee so he could have an uphill battle. Harrison moved to the 'pen last season after posting an ERA over 5.00 in 32 career starts with the team. The lefty was much better in relief so he could stick there with so many other options to start. Kirkman was very good as a Triple-A starter but pitched in relief once he arrived in the big leagues. With Arthur Rhodes and Darren Oliver guaranteed spots in the 'pen this season, he'll likely go back to starting with an outside shot of winning the #5 spot. UPDATE 1/30 - Bush, signed to a minor league deal, is the most likely contender to give Holland a run for the last rotation spot. The right-hander isn't overpowering but he had 18 quality starts in 2010 and is a solid option if Holland isn't quite ready to be a consistent performer. UPDATE 3/1 - Feldman is not likely to be ready for the start of the season, according to the team. He's more likely to join Webb on the DL to start the season. UPDATE 3/4 - I know I'm a little late with this one, but Feliz is being given a shot to make the rotation so I added him to the list. I don't think the bullpen could survive without him, which makes this a bit questionable. He's already a great closer and would likely end up being a great starter. But why mess with a good thing when you don't know if anyone else is capable of closing out games for you? UPDATE 3/24 - The Rangers appear to have set their rotation and Holland and Harrison are in. Feliz remains the closer. Kirkman goes to Triple-A. UPDATE 3/26 - The team will likely choose between Bush and Kirkman to fill the last spot that was opened up when Hunter strained his groin. Alexi Ogando is also reportedly under consideration. UPDATE 3/28 - Bush will be the long reliever and Ogando looks like he'll start the season in the rotation.

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Position Battle Tracker (NL WEST)

last updated 3/28/11 10:32 AM PST
by Jason Martinez

Arizona Diamondbacks
First Base/Left Field

Xavier Nady (favorite) vs Juan Miranda (slight favorite) vs Russell Branyan (slight underdog) vs Gerardo Parra (underdog) vs Brandon Allen (underdog) vs Wily Mo Peña (out)   

Tale of the Tape

Miranda: 27 years old, $440K salary, .285/.371/.495 in 295 AB's (AAA)

Allen: 25 years old, $414K salary, .261/.405/.528 in 371 AB's, 14 SB (AAA)
Branyan: 35 years old, $1M salary, .237/.323/.487 in 476 AB's 

Nady: 32 years old, $1.75M salary, .256/.306/.353 in 317 AB's

Parra: 23 years old, $440M salary, .261/.308/.371 in 364 AB's 

Allen: 25 years old, $414K salary, .261/.405/.528 in 371 AB's, 14 SB (AAA)

Peña: 29 years old, $414K salary, .324/.390/.556 in 142 AB's (AAA) 

Analysis: This competition was analyzed by me over at RotoAuthority. Click HERE to read the article. UPDATE 2/21 - I've added Branyan to the competition. This was not reflected in the RotoAuthority article since he signed later. If he doesn't beat out Miranda, he'll still play an important role as a left-handed hitting power bat off the bench. UPDATE 3/19 - Only Nady has struggled offensively, thus far. This one could go down to the wire.

#4 and 5 Starter

RHP Barry Enright 

(named starter) vs 

RHP Armando Galarraga (named starter) vs RHP Aaron Heilman (underdog)  

Tale of the Tape

Enright: 25 years old, $425K salary, 6-7, 3.91 ERA, 99 IP, 97 H, 29 BB, 49 K

Galarraga: 29 years old, $2.3M salary, 4-9, 4.49 ERA, 144.1 IP, 143 H, 51 BB, 74 K

Heilman: 32 years old, $2M salary, 5-8, 4.50 ERA, 72 IP, 73 H, 26 BB, 55 K, 6 Sv

Analysis: Up until a mid-January, it appeared that the job was Enright's to lose after he put together a solid rookie campaign in 2010. But Heilman will now be given a chance to start after re-signing with the team and Galarraga was acquired from the Tigers, officially making this a three-man race for the last spot in the Diamondbacks' rotation. Heilman last started a game back in 2005 with the Mets. In 25 big league starts from 2003-2005, he was 5-13 with a 5.93 ERA. He's gone on to become a solid reliever and it's likely he'll continue that role for a team that needs as much bullpen help as it can get. Galarraga makes over $2M in 2011, a hefty amount for a long reliever, which is what he would be if he didn't win a spot in the rotation. Which is why I have him as an early favorite to become the #5 starter. UPDATE 3/13 - With Zach Duke out two months with a broken pitching hand, there is now room for two of the candidates. Good news for Enright. All three are likely to make the 25-man roster at this point, although Heilman would be coming out of the 'pen. UPDATE 3/22 - Enright is in. Galarraga and Heilman are still fighting for last spot. UPDATE 3/28 - Galarraga has won the last rotation spot. Heilman will pitch out the bullpen once again.

Colorado Rockies
Second Base
Jose Lopez (favorite) vs Jonathan Herrera (underdog) vs Ty Wigginton (long shot)

Tale of the Tape
Lopez: 27 years old, $3.6M salary, .239/.270/.339 in 593 AB's, 3 SB
Young: 25 years old, $440K salary, .244/.312/.285 in 172 AB's, 17 SB
Herrera: 26 years old, $440K salary, .284/.352/.342 in 222 AB's
Wigginton: 33 years old, $4M salary, .248/.312/.415 in 581 AB's

Analysis: This competition was analyzed by me over at RotoAuthority. Click HERE to read the article.

#5 Starter

Esmil Rogers (named starter) vs Greg Reynolds (out) vs John Maine (out) 

Tale of the Tape

Rogers: 25 years old, $425K salary, 2-3, 6.13 ERA, 72 IP, 94 H, 26 BB, 66 K in 28 games (8 starts)
Reynolds: 25 years old, $425K salary, 7-6, 5.38 ERA, 89.2 IP, 105 H, 15 BB, 45 K in 17 starts (AA)

Mortensen: 25 years old, $425K, 13-6, 4.25 ERA, 165.1 IP, 161 H, 53 BB, 112 K in 26 starts (AAA)

Maine: 29 years old, $TBD salary, 1-3, 6.13 ERA, 39.2 IP, 47 H, 25 BB, 39 K in 9 starts

Analysis: UPDATE 3/9 - With word that Aaron Cook is dealing with shoulder soreness and might not be ready to start the season, the Rockies may have to decide on a fifth starter to take his spot in the rotation. The hard-throwing Paulino is likely the first choice because he is out of options. He struggled in his first start of the spring, however, and may be better suited for a relief role. Rogers and Mortensen have big league experience as starters but are more likely to start the season in the Triple-A rotation. Maine, who is returning from shoulder surgery, is set to make his first appearance of the spring today. If all goes well, he could put himself in the mix. UPDATE 3/10 - Paulino was told this morning that he will compete for a bullpen spot and is no longer in the mix for the rotation. UPDATE 3/13 - Despite allowing 8 ERs in 14.1 IP this spring, Reynolds has been mentioned as a candidate for the spot. He does have just one walk and nine strikeouts. UPDATE 3/19 - Rogers has been impressive and the job appears to be his to lose. UPDATE 3/24 - Rogers has been named the team's #5 starter to begin the season.

Los Angeles Dodgers
Left Field
Jay Gibbons (slight favorite) vs Tony Gwynn, Jr. (underdog) vs Xavier Paul (underdog) vs Marcus Thames (underdog)

Tale of the Tape
Gibbons: 34 years old, $650K salary, .280/.313/.507 in 75 AB's
Gwynn: 28 years old, $675K salary, .204/.304/.287 in 289 AB's
Paul: 26 years old, $414K salary, .325/.384/.579 in 228 AB's, 7 SB (AAA)
Thames: 34 years old, $TBD, .288/.350/.491 in 212 AB's

Analysis: Chances are the Dodgers will add another name to the mix, likely someone who will be the clear-cut starter in left field. Johnny Damon and Scott Podsednik are two names still available that fit that description. If not, they could give Paul regular playing time in hopes that his minor league success can carry over to the big leagues. Gibbons would add some pop to the lineup but is limited defensively. Gwynn might be one of the better outfielders in baseball but he also might have been the least productive hitting outfielder in 2010. Count on him to get some starts but he's probably most valuable as a late-inning defensive replacement. UPDATE 1/17 - Thames is unlikely to get regular duty but with his three competitors all left-handed, he should get the majority of AB's against LHP's. UPDATE 1/18 - I've changed my projection on the left field battle, making Gibbons the favorite. I simply haven't heard Paul's name mentioned this offseason in regards to the starting job. A Gibbons/Thames or Gwynn/Thames platoon is most likely at this point, although there are still some interesting names on the free agent market. UPDATE 3/19 - Gwynn and Paul are both hitting over .300 this spring while Gibbons is just 3-for-24. Thames has locked up the starting job vs LHPs but is still very unlikely for full-time duty.

San Diego Padres
#5 Starter
Wade LeBlanc (favorite) vs Cory Luebke (underdog) vs Dustin Moseley (underdog)

Tale of the Tape
LeBlanc: 26 years old, $440K salary, 8-12, 4.25 ERA, 146 IP, 157 H, 51 BB, 110 K in 26 games (25 starts)
Luebke: 26 years old, $414K salary, 10-1, 2.68 ERA, 114 IP, 83 H, 29 BB, 88 K in 19 games (AAA/AA)
Moseley: 29 years old, $900K, 4-4, 4.96 ERA, 65.1 IP, 66 H, 27 BB, 33 K in 16 games (9 starts)

Analysis: LeBlanc was actually removed from the rotation down the stretch last season so he is far from being a lock in 2011. In fairness to him, it was his first full season in the big leagues and he might've just been worn out. The lefty had a 3.30 ERA in 16 starts before the All-Star break. Luebke appears just about ready for the big leagues, although he tossed a career high 131.2 IP last season and will probably benefit from a lighter workload in the minors early in the season. Moseley's versatility will likely make him the swingman. Liz still has some upside and will likely get a longer look in spring training entering his second season with the organization. It's not out of the question for the team to bring in at least one other competitor for the job. There are still quite a few starters on the market that would welcome a chance to resurrect their career at Petco Park. UPDATE 1/5 - Liz was released by the team and is reportedly heading to pitch in Korea.

San Francisco Giants

1B/LF (Aubrey Huff will fill one of the two spots)

Pat Burrell (favorite) vs Mark DeRosa (underdog) vs Brandon Belt (underdog)  

Tale of the Tape

Burrell: 34 years old, $1M salary, .252/.348/.469 in 373 AB's
DeRosa: 36 years old, $6M salary, .194/.279/.258 in 93 AB's

Belt: 22 years old, $414K salary, .352/.455/.620 in 492 AB's, 22 SB (AAA/AA/HiA) 

Analysis: Manager Bruce Bochy has said that Belt will get a chance to win a job in spring training after he put up ridiculously good numbers in his first minor league season. Presumably he would be going head-to-head with Burrell, who is currently penciled in as the starting left fielder. If Belt wins a spot on the 25-man roster, he would likely play first base with Huff moving to the outfield. Burrell had his ups and downs after being acquired by San Francisco in early June and struggled badly in the playoffs, but he was a big reason that the Giants got to the post-season. My guess is that Belt will start the season in the minors with some combination of Burrell, DeRosa, and Nate Schierholtz holding down the left field job until late May or early June. Sound familiar? Buster Posey was recalled on May 29th when the lineup was in serious need of a lift. So why not stick with the same formula? UPDATE 2/20 - Bochy says DeRosa will have a chance to be the team's Opening Day left fielder. 

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Position Battle Tracker (NL CENTRAL)

updated 3/28/11 1:01 PM PST
by Jason Martinez

Chicago Cubs

Second Base
Jeff Baker (even) vs Darwin Barney (even) vs Blake DeWitt (out)

Tale of the Tape
DeWitt: 25 years old, $450K salary, .261/.336/.373 in 440 ABs, 3 SB
Baker: 29 years old, $1.175M salary, .272/.326/.413 in 206 ABs
Barney: 25 years old, $425K salary, .299/.333/.378 in 479 ABs, 11 SB

Analysis: UPDATE 3/16 - After DeWitt was acquired from the Dodgers at last year's trade deadline in the deal for starting pitcher Ted Lilly, it was assumed by most that he would be the team's starting second baseman in 2011. At the least, he would be in a platoon with Baker. But things have changed this spring. DeWitt has been awful, with just 6 hits in 34 ABs. The left-handed hitter, who has a career OBP of .335, has also yet to draw a walk. On the other hand, Baker is lighting it up with a .400 BA (12-for-30) and is being considered for the full-time job over DeWitt. It should be noted, however, that Baker was just 7-for-66 (.106 BA) against RHPs last season. Doesn't sound like someone you want to throw out there on a daily basis. Another option is Barmey, a career .286 hitter in the minors, who is 10-for-30 this spring. Barney is a good defender but comes without much offensive upside. It has become obvious, in my opinion, that the Cubs could use an upgrade here. UPDATE 3/24 - Barney is getting strong consideration after a strong spring. UPDATE 3/24 - DeWitt will be a backup while Baker and Barney will share the job to begin the season.

#5 Starter

Andrew Cashner (named starter) vs Carlos Silva (out) vs Braden Looper (out) 

Tale of the Tape

Cashner: 24 years old, $440K salary, 2-6, 4.80 ERA, 54.1 IP, 55 H, 30 BB, 50 K in 53 games
Looper: 36 years old, $1M salary, 14-7, 5.22 ERA, 194.2 IP, 226 H, 64 BB, 100 K in 34 starts (2009
Silva: 31 years old, $11.5M salary, 10-6, 4.22 ERA, 113 IP, 120 H, 24 BB, 80 K in 21 starts

Analysis: The rotation certainly has some depth after Matt Garza was acquired, leaving Gorzelanny and Silva to fight it out for the last spot although they are each coming off of relatively good seasons. The team could also try and trade one of the two. After being moved to relief to help out a struggling Cubs' bullpen, Cashner struggled a bit early on but showed signs of becoming a dominant late-inning reliever late in the season. However, many believe his future will be at the top of the rotation. The chances of this happening in 2011 are uncertain but my guess is that the Cubs will utilize his power arm out of the bullpen this season and move him into the rotation in 2012. UPDATE 1/20 - Gorzelanny was traded to Washington, clearing the way for Silva to keep his rotation spot. Still, it's worth keeping an eye on Cashner this spring to see if he can force his way into the rotation. UPDATE 2/25 - My opinion hasn't changed much. I still think Wells and Silva nail down the last two spots with decent springs. But the way the Cubs are spinning it, it's an open competition for those spots and Cashner, Russell, Coleman, Wellemeyer, and Looper will all have a shot to win a spot. Looper, signed to a minor league deal last month, didn't pitch last season but won 14 games with the Cardinals in 2009 despite an ERA over 5.00 and .289 BAA.  UPDATE 3/7 - Silva might have fallen behind in the race after allowing 8 ERs and 10 hits in today's start. UPDATE 3/16 - Wells appears to have locked up the #4 spot and while Cashner hasn't been great (11.1 IP, 5 ER, 11 H, 7 BB, 6 K), no one else in the competition has emerged as a better candidate. We'll see if anyone can make it interesting over the next two weeks. UPDATE 3/19 - Looks like it's down to Cashner, Looper, and Silva. UPDATE 3/24 - Silva made a strong case in yesterday's start (6 IP, ER, 3 H) but Cashner and Looper are likely to get another start before a decision is made. UPDATE 3/25 - The Cubs are reportedly leaning towards Cashner. In the meantime, Looper announced his retirement after he found out that he wouldn't be on the roster. UPDATE 3/26 - Cashner was named to the rotation while Silva is likely to be released if he isn't traded. 

Cincinnati Reds
Left Field
Jonny Gomes (favorite) vs Fred Lewis (out) Chris Heisey (underdog) vs Jeremy Hermida (out)

Tale of the Tape
Gomes: 30 years old, $1.75M salary, .266/.327/.431 in 511 AB's, 5 SB, -19.1 UZR/150
Lewis: 30 years old, $900K salary, .262/.332/.414 in 428 AB's, 17 SB
Heisey: 26 years old, $440K salary, .254/.324/.433 in 201 AB's, 1 SB
Hermida: 27 years old, $500K salary, .216/.268/.351 in 222 AB's

Analysis: After hitting .266 with 18 HR's and 86 RBI's for the NL Central Champs, Gomes will go into spring training as the starting left fielder. It's important to note, however, that the 30 year-old did most of his damage against LHP's (.857 OPS) while his .709 OPS is barely passable for someone not making a difference defensively or on the base paths. Thus, there could be some competition coming his way. In limited playing time, the right-handed hitting Heisey had a .925 OPS against RHP's but was terrible against LHP's (.545 OPS). Frazier, who came into the 2010 season as the team's #1 prospect according to Baseball America, got off to a slow start in Triple-A but posted an .854 OPS over the second half of the season. Francisco would give the team a third left-handed hitting power threat, but he has limited experience in the outfield and probably isn't ready to make the move. UPDATE 1/4 - Add Hermida to the list of candidates, although he struggled badly in 2010 between Boston and Oakland. The left-handed hitter hasn't produced much since a breakout season in 2007 with Florida (.296-18-63). The Reds are hoping he can rebound and possibly provide them with a better option against RHP's. UPDATE 1/10 - Lewis jumps to the top of the list as the leading contender to take AB's away from Gomes. The left-handed hitter also gives the team another option at the leadoff spot along with Stubbs and Phillips. UPDATE 3/1 - Manager Dusty Baker said today that "Gomes deserves to play most of the time." This likely rules out the possibility of a straight platoon. UPDATE 3/28 - Lewis will start the season on the DL so any type of platoon will be between Gomes (.857 OPS vs LHPs in '10) and Heisey (.925 OPS vs RHPs in '10).

#5 Starter
Travis Wood (#3 starter) vs Mike Leake (#4 starter)

Tale of the Tape

Wood: 24 years old, $440K salary, 5-4, 3.51 ERA, 102.2 IP, 85 H, 26 H, 86 K in 17 starts 

Leake: 24 years old, $440K salary, 8-4, 4.23 ERA, 138.1 IP, 158 H, 49 BB, 91 K in 24 games (22 starts)

Analysis: This competition was analyzed by me over at RotoAuthority. Click here to read the article. UPDATE 3/26 - Both pitchers will be in the rotation because of the injuries to Johnny Cueto and Homer Bailey. Leake, however, had a rough spring and would've started the season in the minors had the team went into the season healthy. 

Houston Astros
1B/LF (*Carlos Lee will fill one of the two spots)

Brett Wallace (named starter) vs Brian Bogusevic (out) vs Jason Michaels (out) 

Tale of the Tape

Wallace: 24 years old, $425K salary, .222/.296/.319 in 144 AB's

Bogusevic: 27 years old, $414K salary, .277/.364/.414 in 502 AB's, 23 SB (AAA)

Michaels: 34 years old, $900K salary, .253/.310/.468 in 186 AB's

Analysis: With Lee an option at first base should Wallace look as bad as he did during his big league debut in the second half of 2010, Bogusevic could have a chance to win a starting job in left field. The former pitcher reached the big leagues less than three years after making the conversion to the outfield when he got the call late last season. Michaels also figures to benefit if Wallace fails, although he's more likely in line for AB's against left-handers as opposed to a full-time job. UPDATE 3/19 - Wallace is erasing any doubt that he may need some more time in the minors with an impressive showing this spring (17-for-47, 7 2B). Bogusevic has gone just 9-for-38 and is likely ticketed for Triple-A to start the season. UPDATE 3/24 - Bogusevic was optioned to the minors. UPDATE 3/28 - Wallace was officially named the starter.

#5 Starter
Nelson Figueroa (named starter) vs Jordan Lyles (out)

Tale of the Tape
Figueroa: 36 years old, $900K salary, 7-4, 3.29 ERA, 93 IP, 84 H, 34 BB, 73 K in 31 games (11 starts)
Lyles: 20 years old, $414K salary, 7-12, 3.57 ERA, 158.2 IP, 181 H, 46 BB, 137 K (AAA/AA)

Analysis: Thirty-six year-old journeyman or not, Figueroa was terrific last season, especially after he was claimed off waivers from the Phillies and eventually inserted into the rotation. His competition comes from Rowland-Smith, coming off of a nightmare season, and two Rule-V picks. Rowland-Smith was an effective pitcher prior to 2010 so there's a chance he can rebound and win the job in spring training. Rule V picks typically have a hard time even sticking as long relievers, so Rodriguez and Pendleton will have to be really good in spring training to get a look as starters. UPDATE 1/7 - I had enough people ask so I added Lyles to the list. At just 20 years old and with only six Triple-A starts under his belt, he is better off getting at least 10-15 starts in Oklahoma City before he joins the rotation. But if none of the others are impressing all that much, I'm sure they'd consider carrying him as their #5 starter early in the season. UPDATE 3/19 - Lyles has easily been the most impressive candidate this spring (10 IP, 2 ER, 9 H, 2 BB, 5 K) but still has to considered unlikely to start the season with the team. He is just 20 years old, after all, with only six starts in Triple-A. UPDATE 3/20 - It appears to be down to Figueroa and Lyles. Both pitchers will likely have one last start before a decision is made. UPDATE 3/21 - Figueroa has been named the team's 5th starter.

Milwaukee Brewers
Center Field
Carlos Gomez (lock) vs Chris Dickerson (traded)

Tale of the Tape
Gomez: 25 years old, $1.5M salary, .247/.298/.357 in 291 AB's, 18 SB, 8.0 UZR/150
Dickerson: 28 years old, $440K salary, .206/.250/.268 in 97 AB's, 4 SB

Analysis: With Lorenzo Cain officially out of the competition after he was dealt to Kansas City, it appears that Gomez will get another chance to live up to his potential. Dickerson suffered through an injury-plagued and unproductive season but he had previously showed promise as an athletic left-handed hitter with an ability to get on base at a high rate. He'll likely need to outplay Gomez by a wide margin in spring training in order to win the job. UPDATE 3/19 - Gomez has all but locked up the starting job. Dickerson has already been nagged with two injuries while Gomez is having a huge spring (15-for-38, 6 2B, 3B, 2 HR, 7 RBI, 3 SB). He still doesn't draw walks but he's done enough to lock up a starting job. UPDATE 3/25 - With Dickerson traded, there isn't any question that Gomez has the starting center field job to himself.

#5 Starter

Marco Estrada (even) vs RHP Sergio Mitre (even) vs Wily Peralta (out) vs Mark Rogers (out)   

Tale of the Tape

Estrada: 27 years old, $425K, 1-2, 3.15 ERA, 40 IP, 30 H, 11 BB, 33 K in 7starts (AAA)
Peralta: 21 years old, $414K, 8-6, 3.79 ERA, 147.1 IP, 145 H, 64 BB, 104 K in 27 games (25 starts between AA/HiA)
Rogers: 25 years old, $414K, 6-8, 3.71 ERA, 111.2 IP, 86 H, 69 BB, 111 K in 24 starts (AA)

Analysis: UPDATE 3/9 - With ace Zack Greinke expected to miss a few starts, the competition for the last spot in the rotation is now open. Rogers and Parra are the obvious choices but both have battled injuries this spring. It could come down to whoever is healthy enough. If neither pitcher can be ready for the start of the season, then Rivas appears to be the prospect closest to the big leagues. UPDATE 3/10 - According to Bernie's Crew, Parra will be in the bullpen on Opening Day if he is healthy. UPDATE 3/13 - Rivas was optioned to the minors, leaving Peralta and Rogers as the last men standing. That is, unless you want to include a journeyman like Tim Dillard. Peralta, who made just eight starts in Double-A last season, would be making an even bigger jump than Rivas would had. It appears to be Rogers' job to lose, as long as he's healthy. UPDATE 3/15 - Unless someone else emerges, Peralta appears to be the last man standing after Rogers was optioned to the minors. The team doesn't think Rogers will be ready for the start of the regular season, although there is a chance he can take over the second time the 5th rotation spot comes up in mid-April. UPDATE 3/19 - After Peralta struggled in his first start since taking over as the 'projected #5 starter', the team is likely looking for possible alternatives. Estrada pitched well in Triple-A last season before getting a big league call-up. The right-hander struggled in seven games before being demoted and was later shut down with a shoulder injury. He was removed from the 40-man roster in October but is in camp and could get an opportunity late in camp. He has allowed just 1 ER in 4 IP. UPDATE 3/22 - At this point, Estrada looks like a better short-term fit to fill the last rotation spot until Greinke returns. This will allow Peralta to get some much more needed experience in the minors. UPDATE 3/25 - Peralta was optioned to the minors and Mitre was acquired from the Yankees. He's the new favorite. UPDATE 3/25 - GM Doug Melvin views Mitre as a reliever who could start, if necessary. With Parra expected to start the season on the DL, Mitre likely fills his role in the 'pen and Estrada still looks like a good candidate for the rotation. UPDATE 3/25 - Melvin also said that they could go into the season with a four-man bullpen and then possibly go with Mitre or call up another candidate for that fifth game, if necessary. This will allow the team to go into the season with an eight-man bullpen. 

Pittsburgh Pirates
Right Field
Garrett Jones (lock) vs Ryan Doumit (underdog) vs John Bowker (underdog) vs Steve Pearce (underdog)

Tale of the Tape
Jones: 29 years old, $440K, .247/.306/.414 in 592 AB's, 7 SB
Doumit: 30 years old, $5.1M, .251/.333/.406 in 406 AB's
Bowker: 27 years old, $440K, .313/.382/.587 in 288 AB's (AAA)
Pearce: 27 years old, $414K, .326/.424/.535 in 129 AB's, 7 SB (AAA)

Analysis: After Jones' breakout season in '09 (.293-21-44 in 82 games), many people were wondering what kind of numbers he'd put up in a full season. Well, he was given that chance in 2010 and the results (.247-21-86) were a bit disappointing. Going into 2011, he's expected to platoon with Matt Diaz in right field but he'll have to hold off a slew of competitors, including Bowker and Pearce, who are looking for a chance to prove that they can carry over their minor league success to the big leagues. Doumit might be the best hitter of the group, but he could be on the trade block at the moment and there's no telling how the catcher would do in the outfield. Presley had a breakout season in the minors but will likely need to duplicate his success in Triple-A to prove 2010 was no fluke. He had been a fringe prospect in the low minors prior to last season. UPDATE 3/14 - Presley, who was a long shot anyways, was optioned to the minors. UPDATE 3/19 - No one has really separated themselves from the group, although Doumit is the only candidate to really struggle thus far (3-for-19). UPDATE 3/26 - Never heard any buzz coming out of Pirates' camp about anyone else ever being in the running so Jones looks like he'll be the guy going into the season. Figured early on that he would have some competition but maybe I was wrong.

#5 Starter
Charlie Morton (named starter) vs Brian Buress (out) vs Brad Lincoln (out) vs Scott Olsen (out)

Tale of the Tape
Morton: 27 years old, $440K salary, 2-12, 7.57 ERA, 79.2 IP, 112 H, 26 BB, 59 K in 17 starts
Burres: 29 years old, $440K salary, 4-5, 4.99 ERA, 79.1 IP, 87 H, 34 BB, 45 K in 20 games (13 starts)
Lincoln: 25 years old, $414K salary, 1-4, 6.66 ERA, 52.2 IP, 66 H, 15 BB, 25 K in 11 games (9 starts)
Olsen: 27 years old, $500K salary, 4-8, 5.56 ERA, 81 IP, 93 H, 27 BB, 53 K in 17 games (15 starts)

Analysis: Olsen was signed, presumably, to be the team's #5 starter. He'll have to prove that he is healthy after battling through injuries the past two seasons. Previously, he had been an effective starter for the Marlins. Karstens was tendered a contract, signing for $1.1 million, so the team must have been happy with his work in 2010. He could be more valuable as a versatile swingman who could start, if needed. Morton, McCutchen, and Lincoln have all been highly-ranked prospects at one time but have yet to show much as major league starters. UPDATE 1/3 - Burres is new to the list after being re-signed to a minor league deal today. He's probably a better fit in a long relief role although he posted a 4.46 ERA in 13 starts for the team in 2010. UPDATE 3/19 - Olsen has only pitched a few innings this spring after missing time with a strained hamstring and doesn't have much time to get stretched out for the regular season. Meanwhile, Burres has tossed nine scoreless innings while Morton (8 IP, 2 ER) and Lincoln (10.2 IP, 4 ER) have both pitched well. UPDATE 3/20 - Morton is most likely pitching his way onto the roster with a terrific spring. He tossed six scoreless inning today and has allowed just 2 ERs in 14 IP overall. He's walked just one batter and struck out eight. UPDATE 3/21 - Olsen is officially out of the competition. He could still win a bullpen job or could land on the DL (hamstring). UPDATE 3/24 - Morton has officially been named one of the team's five starters. He'll start the team's fourth game of the season.

St. Louis Cardinals

#5 Starter

Kyle McClellan (lock) vs Raul Valdes (long shot) vs Brandon Dickson (shot) vs Lance Lynn (out) 

Tale of the Tape

McClellan: 26 years old, $1.375M salary, 1-4, 2.27 ERA, 75.1 IP, 58 H, 23 BB, 60 K in 68 games  

Valdes: 33 years old, $440K, 3-3, 4.91 ERA, 58.2 IP, 59 H, 27 BB, 56 K in 38 games (1 start)

Dickson: 26 years old, $414K, 11-8, 3.23 ERA, 167 IP, 180 H, 53 BB, 137 K in 28 games (27 starts)
Lynn: 23 years old, $414K salary, 13-10, 4.77 ERA, 164 IP, 164 H, 62 BB, 141 K in 29 games 

Analysis: Adam Wainwright will undergo season-ending Tommy John surgery, leaving the Cardinals with one spot to fill in the rotation. McClellan pitched well last spring in an audition for a starting spot but ended up losing out to Jaime Garcia. The only downside of moving the 26 year-old right-hander into the rotation is that they'll be taking away their most reliable setup man from the 'pen. The farm system appears to have some good relief prospects in the upper minors, however, with Eduardo Sanchez, Blake King, Adam Reifer, and Francisco Samuel all closing in on the big leagues. So maybe they can afford to move him. If they choose to keep McClellan in the bullpen, then they can look to a group of young right-handers (Lynn, Ottavino, Waltes, Dickson) or the journeyman left-hander Valdes, who has had some success as a minor league starter. Pursuing a trade or a free agent (Kevin Millwood is still available) is also an option although the team may be content with their internal group of candidates. UPDATE 3/19 - McClellan is having a terrific camp (12 IP, ER, 6 H, 3 BB, 9 K) and has all but locked up a rotation spot.  UPDATE 3/21 - Lynn was reassigned to the minors. Now just waiting for official announcement on McClellan.

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