Roster-ing

The Giants cut the roster in camp from 42 down to 36 players. LH reliever Sam Selman, who I thought was a lock to open the season with the Giants, was optioned to the minors (presumably AAA). Infielder Jason Vosler, who seems to be the kind of versatile player FZ and Kap love, joins Selman. It's good to have quality backups in the system, and I should note that both players have options remaining.

Roster Resource shows veteran Wandy Peralta as the next LH reliever on the depth chart. They also like NRIs Shun Yamaguchi and Nick Tropeano as RH swingmen behind Tyler Rogers, Matt Wisler, and Reyes Moronta. Both Yamaguchi and Tropeano have starting experience. Southpaws Jake McGee, Jarlin García, and José Álvarez will likely make up the rest of the 'pen.

Kevin Gausman gets the nod to open the season in Seattle (Thursday, April 1st) with Johnny Cueto slotting in the next day. The first game at home isn't until the 9th (Rockies) and it looks like Cueto will get the ball then as its game #7. I expect Gausman will pitch game #6 in San Diego. At this point Anthony DeSclafani and Logan Webb will get the next two spots. Alex Wood is still uncertain and that probably means Aaron Sanchez will be the 5th starter.

The other four players cut were NRIs and will be re-assigned, those are pitchers Silvino Bracho, Rico Garcia (who needs surgery), Phil Pfeifer, and OF Joe McCarthy.

If you were counting, that's 14 pitchers (5 starters and 9 relievers) leaving room for only 12 position players. MLB is allowing 14 pitchers this season instead of capping the 26-man at 13--that's a holdover from last season. Only 12 position players makes it hard for someone like LaMonte Wade, Jr. or Steven Duggar to crack the roster. Much will depend on the health and readiness of Evan Longoria and Brandon Belt. Only one week until real baseball!

--M.C.