1. What youngsters will be in the spotlight?
One of the most compelling things about Spring Training is the opportunity to see young performers test their mettle against seasoned major leaguers. In 2008, a number of players who have yet to exhaust their rookie status could make an impact at the highest level. Of course, first they need to show up in Spring Training, lest their respective organizations decide they're not ready.
To wit, keep an eye on Jay Bruce of the Reds, Jacoby Ellsbury and Clay Buchholz of the Red Sox, Ian Kenndy and Joba Chamberlain of the Yankees (calm down, Yankee homers — Philip Hughes is no longer a rookie), Justin Upton of the Diamondbacks, Andy LaRoche of the Dodgers, Cameron Maybin of the Marlins, Evan Longoria of the Rays, Franklin Morales of the Rockies, and many others.