My 2008 Roster....

The 2008 season is just around the corner (April 3rd) and most fans are starting to wonder who will be assigned to Harrisburg this season. As I’m sure you know, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered before the Nationals start assigning players to minor league teams. Spring training performance and injuries will also play a major role in where players are assigned. Here is a list of players that I think MIGHT start the 2008 season in Harrisburg.

Catcher
Jesus Flores – R/R (AA or AAA?)
Luke Montz or Devin Ivany

Infield
1B – Chris Marrero
2B – Leonard Davis
3B – Brandon Powell or Matt Rogelstad (Castro could start)
SS – Ian Desmond
Utility – Ofilio Castro (2B/3B)

Outfield
CF – Justin Maxwell – R/R
OF – Marvin Lowrance – L/L
OF – Edgardo Baez – R/R
OF - Mike Daniel

Pitching Staff
Adam Carr - RHP
Carlos Martinez – RHP
Cory Van Allen – LHP
Clint Everts – RHP
Ross Detwiler – LHP
Jack Spardlin – LHP
Eddy Baeza – RHP
Macro Estrada – RHP
David Trahan – RHP
Shairon Martis - RHP

Over the past few weeks (and even today) I’ve read conflicting reports on where Jesus Flores and Ross Detwiler might start the season. As of right now Flores is stuck in his home country with visa issues (should report to spring training this weekend). He has a chance to begin the season as the Nats starting catcher or he could be assigned to Harrisburg (as reported a few weeks ago). It all depends on how quickly La Duca and Estrada recover from surgery. Reports out today are that Detwiler could start the season in the Nats bullpen. My opinion is he should start the season in Harrisburg.

Putting a list like this together, this early, is difficult. I know I am a few players short too but I was having a difficult time filling out the final few roster spots. I’m sure some of the players on my list will be assigned to Harrisburg and others won’t. We will find out soon, 43 days and counting until opening day. Remember to come out to FanFest on March 1st from 11 to 4, at the Harrisburg Mall.

Be sure to visit Senators Fans Unite on Friday, February 29th for an Exclusive interview with a member of the Senators Front office staff.