Spring Training Begins!

As pitchers and catchers report, here are the things to be watching:

1. Brad Bergesen's health - his injury last year was considered minor at first, but ended up ending his season. As Matt pointed out, he reinjured himself in an Orioles promotional commercial. We'll have to see how this will affect him, even though he says he will be fine well before Opening Day. That could leave an open slot or at least an opportunity for someone else to slip into the rotation.

2. Jake Arrieta's unexpected chance - we all thought the rotation was cemented together, but evidently Chris Tillman's spot is not guaranteed and Bergesen is uncertain due to his injury. I don't think it makes sense to abandon Tillman, but we'll see how things progress.

3. Building the bullpen - there are a lot of arms fighting for a spot, and even though some may seem like a lock, the competition could cause quite a stir. Someone will be left out. Matt Albers maybe?

Still waiting...

Mark Hendrickson, who was rumored to have signed over a week ago, still hasn't officially been placed on the roster. Assuming he is, that is one less available spot in the bullpen.

In case you were wondering, Dennis Sarfate was the player chosen to be designated for assignment to make room for Miguel Tejada. No one claimed him and he was sent to Triple-A, but will still have a chance to compete for a relief role.

News is slow these days...

UPDATE: Of course, a few hours later and the O's sign Hendrickson, designating reliever Armando Gabino for assignment. They also signed Will Ohman to a minor league contract, who will compete for a spot as a left-handed specialist.