--RHP Adam Miller's performance in training camp will bear watching. One of the most highly regarded pitching prospects in the minor leagues, Miller has been repeatedly derailed by injuries. If he can stay healthy through the spring, he has a good chance at being on the Indians' Opening Day roster in a bullpen role. Down the road, club officials believe a healthy Miller is potentially an option in a starting role or as a closer.
--SS Jhonny Peralta played some third base during winter ball in preparation for a potential position switch in 2009. But when the Indians traded for Mark DeRosa and installed him at third base, it meant Peralta would remain at shortstop in 2009. However, manager Eric Wedge says there are days when opposing teams start a left-handed pitcher that he may choose to play DeRosa in the outfield, in place of one of the Indians' left-handed hitting outfielders. On those days it's possible that Peralta could start at third base, a position club officials believe still might be Peralta's eventual destination. --OF Shin-Soo Choo goes to training camp as the starter in right field, based on his strong second-half showing last year following his return from Tommy John surgery on his left (throwing) elbow. From Aug. 5 through the end of the season, Choo batted .377 with 10 home runs and 41 RBI in 162 at-bats.
--LHP Jeremy Sowers, one of five candidates for the No. 5 spot in the starting rotation, has yet to establish himself at the big-league level after showing so much promise as a rookie three years ago. General manager Mark Shapiro admits that the front office is somewhat baffled by Sowers' stalled career. "It's difficult to say what's happened there," Shapiro said.
--OF Matt LaPorta, OF Trevor Crowe, and OF Michael Brantley will all be in the major league training camp. The trio is expected to open the season in the outfield at Class AAA Columbus, but general manager Mark Shapiro said that isn't etched in stone. "It's not impossible for one of the three to make our Opening Day roster," said Shapiro.
BY THE NUMBERS: 16 -- Number of years the Indians held spring training in Winter Haven, Fla., before moving their camp to Arizona this year.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "It's a winnable division, but it's winnable for all five teams." -- General manager Mark Shapiro.
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