Predicting the Angels' Opening Day roster

Club heads into Spring Training with only a few spots up for grabs

February 10th, 2019

ANAHEIM -- The Angels head to Spring Training with most of their roster set, but there will be competition for a few spots. Here's a look at the projected roster for the Angels, as they begin their first campaign under manager Brad Ausmus:
Catcher (2):,
Smith will compete with Juan Briceno for the backup-catcher job in Spring Training.
First base (2): ,
Bour and Pujols are expected to split time at first base.

Second base (1):
Fletcher will compete for a roster spot in Spring Training with .
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Third base (1):
Cozart could play some at second if Ward wins the second-base job in Spring Training over Fletcher.
Shortstop (1):
Cozart can shift over to play shortstop on days when Simmons needs a rest.

Outfield (4): , , ,
Hermosillo will compete for the fourth-outfielder spot with .
Utility (1):
La Stella will be the primary backup at third base and second base.
Designated hitter (1):
Ohtani will not be ready for the start of the season, so he could be replaced by an extra position player or reliever.

Starting pitcher (5): , , , ,
Barria will compete for the fifth-starter spot with , and .
Relief pitcher (7): , , , Justin Anderson, , ,
Ramirez will compete with , and for the final spot in the bullpen.

Here's a look at the Angels' roster in list form:
CATCHERS
Jonathan Lucroy
Kevan Smith
INFIELDERS
Zack Cozart
Andrelton Simmons
David Fletcher
Albert Pujols
Justin Bour
Tommy La Stella
OUTFIELDERS
Justin Upton
Mike Trout
Kole Calhoun
Michael Hermosillo
UTILITY PLAYERS
Tommy La Stella
STARTING PITCHERS
Tyler Skaggs
Andrew Heaney
Matt Harvey
Trevor Cahill
Jaime Barria
RELIEF PITCHERS
Cody Allen
Ty Buttrey
Hansel Robles
Justin Anderson
Luis Garcia
Cam Bedrosian
Noe Ramirez
INJURED LIST
Shohei Ohtani