It seems to me that there are only 4 spots up for grabs for the opening day roster. (assuming everyone is healthy. Could easily turn in to 5 or 6 depending on the status of Bray and Gonzalez) Assume for now, they are healthy. With 13 everyday players, 5 starters, and 7 bullpen arms we can assume:
everyday - Bruce, Taveras, Votto, Phillips, Gonzalez, EE, Hernandez, Hairston, Dickerson, Hannigan, and Keppinger.
Starters - Cueto, Harang, Arroyo, Volquez
Relief - Cordero, Burton, Weathers, Bray, Rhodes, Lincoln
That leaves 2 bench spots, 1 starter, and 1 relief man(probably long). Who do you guys see gettings these spots? Who are you pulling for?
I'd like to see Gomes and Ward fill the bench spots. (left and right handed power, also Gomes getting some starts in left against left-handed pitching)
Bailey or Owings is going to get the 5th spot in the rotation. If bailey gets it, I think Owings will still make the team out of the bullpen. If Owings wins the starting spot, I could see Masset getting that long relief role with Bailey going to AAA.