Not many camp competitions looming

It's another busy day for me as I try to get my life in order before spring training. As if I can do that in one week. I haven't succeeded over the last 25 years. Why start now? Anyway, I'm getting my taxes done this morning and racing to the warehouse for - wait for it - a Twitter meeting. Yes, I'm going over to the dark side. And I brought extra batteries for the flashlight. Right now, you can only find my blog entries linked on Twitter, but I'll do a lot more with it once I get to Sarasota, posting news items and updates and anything else that can be done in 140 characters. Did I say "posting?" I meant "tweeting," of course. But I won't let it take away from School of Roch, which remains my first priority. And I won't treat it like a chat room. Anyway, I'm pretty sure the Orioles are done signing players, so I don't anticipate any roster moves before the weekend. And I don't think they can change radio affiliates for at least three more years. As for camp competitions once I arrive at spring training, it seems like most of the roster is set. The rotation needs to be filled out, with the assumption that a healthy Justin Duchscherer joins Jeremy Guthrie, Brian Matusz and Brad Bergesen. Jake Arrieta currently is viewed as the favorite over Chris Tillman, Zach Britton and Rick VandenHurk, but manager Buck Showalter can be swayed. The bullpen might be finished unless there's an injury, but guys like Clay Rapada, David Riske and Rule 5 pick Adrian Rosario will try to crash the party. And at least one bench spot remains open. The fight for the backup catcher's job always raises goose bumps. Last year, we sat on pins and needles - this was before Ed Smith Stadium underwent renovations - while waiting for Craig Tatum to beat out Chad Moeller. Now it's Tatum versus Jake Fox unless a darkhorse candidate emerges, such as Michel Hernandez or Adam Donachie. Continue to breathe normally. We'll track the left field "competition," if that's what we're calling it. Luke Scott is slated to be the regular, but Felix Pie and Nolan Reimold will try to alter those plans. Failing to succeed, they'll battle for a reserve role. I just don't see both of them making the 25-man roster, though I suppose it's more likely if Fox beats out Tatum. He could also back up at first and third, joining Cesar Izturis in a utility infield role.



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