There always seems to be a lot of consternation this time of year over the 25 man roster, but this year I think it's pretty easy, despite all the hand wringing going on. Assuming that everyone is healthy, and there is no trade for a catcher and/or a new lefty pitcher, here are the 25 men I believe the Bucs should bring north for Opening Day:
Position Guys (13)
Garrett Jones
Neil Walker
Clint Barmes
Pedro Alvarez
Alex Presley
Andrew McCutchen
Jose Tabata
Rod Barajas
Casey McGehee
Matt Hague
Mike McKenry
Nate McLouth
Yamaico Navarro
Given Pedro's struggles, I think McGehee should be platooning with him against lefties at the very least, because the last thing we need from Pedro is a .100 average with 40 K's in April. It's also the last thing Pedro needs for his confidence, since Neal Huntington today said he's guaranteed a roster spot if healthy. And let's be clear, McGehee is a third baseman, having spent 92% of his career at the hot corner (as opposed to 11 games and 22 innings at 1B). He simply is not a credible first baseman platoon option, and Matt Hague is, which is why he should be getting the nod over Josh Harrison. Likewise, I don't expect Matt Hague to be playing 3B, unless it's an emergency situation. And as far as the knock on him being "not a prospect because he's over the hill at 26", how about giving him the chance now, since this is obviously the twilight of his career (I hope the sarcasm was noted by the reader).
Pitchers (12)
Erik Bedard
Jeff Karstens
James McDonald
Charlie Morton
A.J. Burnett
Kevin Correia
Joel Hanrahan
Chris Resop
Jason Grilli
Chris Leroux
Daniel Moskos
Tony Watson
Since the first few weeks don't necessitate a fifth starter, Correia spot starts until Morton and Burnett are healthy, and then he becomes the long man. And while Evan Meek could easily replace one of the lefties of Moskos and Watson, Hurdle loves his southpaws, and Meek would be better served closing in Indianapolis. Brad Lincoln is another option for the bullpen, but my guess is he gets sent down, then comes up as soon as someone gets injured.
There, wasn't that easy?
Beat Em, Bucs!
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