It was another transitional offseason for the Angels as they watched key players John Lackey, Vladimir Guerrero and Chone Figgins leave as free agents while division rivals Seattle and Texas seemed to improve. The Angels have pinned their hopes on the continued development of young players, such as Kendry Morales and Erick Aybar, who had breakout seasons in 2009 and Jered Weaver, Ervin Santana and Joe Saunders, who anchor a deep rotation. The Angels still might be the most complete team in the AL West, but the gap clearly has narrowed. ARRIVALS: RHP Joel Pineiro (free agent from Cardinals), RHP Fernando Rodney (free agent from Tigers), OF/DH Hideki Matsui (free agent from Yankees), RHP Brian Stokes (trade with Mets). DEPARTURES: RHP John Lackey (free agent, signed with Red Sox), 3B Chone Figgins (free agent, signed with Mariners), OF/DH Vladimir Guerrero (free agent, signed with Rangers), LHP Darren Oliver (free agent, signed with Rangers), RHP Kelvim Escobar (free agent, signed with Mets), OF Gary Matthews Jr. (traded to Mets), RHP Jose Arredondo (free agent, signed minor league deal with Reds), RHP Shane Loux (free agent, signed minor league deal with Astros), RHP Dustin Moseley (non-tendered, signed minor league deal with Yankees). SPRING FOCUS: Of all the Angels' free agent losses, Chone Figgins might be the most difficult to replace. INF Brandon Wood will be given a chance to step in for Figgins at third base, but the void Figgins leaves at leadoff will be harder to fill. SS Erick Aybar will get the first look there, but INF Maicer Izturis is also in the picture. The Angels will also be watching RHP Scot Shields closely this spring. Shields has been sidelined since knee surgery last June. His return to form is an X factor that could elevate the Angels' bullpen from question mark to strength. PROJECTED ROTATION: 1. RHP Jered Weaver 2. RHP Ervin Santana 3. LHP Joe Saunders 4. LHP Scott Kazmir 5. RHP Joel Pineiro The departure of John Lackey leaves the Angels' rotation without a clear ace. But the additions of Scott Kazmir by trade last season and Joel Pineiro as a free agent this winter gives them 1-through-5 depth as good as any in the league. Ervin Santana could be the key to elevating this group to an even higher level. An All-Star in 2008, Santana was hampered by a partially torn ligament in his elbow last season. If he is healthy, Santana has a dynamic power repertoire. PROJECTED BULLPEN: LHP Brian Fuentes (closer) RHP Fernando Rodney RHP Scot Shields RHP Kevin Jepsen RHP Jason Bulger RHP Brian Stokes/Matt Palmer The Angels' signing of Fernando Rodney is insurance against Scot Shields' recovery from knee surgery and Brian Fuentes' less than dominating performance at closer (despite a major league-leading 48 saves in 2009). Rodney could slide into either the setup or closer role at times. Shields was one of the most dependable setup men in baseball from 2006 through 2008. If he recovers from knee surgery to regain that form, the Angels' bullpen could be deep and formidable with Kevin Jepsen and Jason Bulger building on the progress they showed in 2009. Brian Stokes, acquired from the Mets in a trade for Gary Matthews Jr., and Matt Palmer will likely compete for the final spot in the bullpen. PROJECTED LINEUP: 1. SS Erick Aybar 2. RF Bobby Abreu 3. 1B Kendry Morales 4. CF Torii Hunter 5. DH Hideki Matsui 6. LF Juan Rivera 7. 2B Howie Kendrick 8. 3B Brandon Wood 9. C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis The Angels expect Matsui to replace Guerrero's production. Replacing Figgins at the top of the lineup will be more difficult. He developed into one of the best leadoff hitters in baseball last season. Aybar led the team with a .312 batting average last season but has shown little of the plate discipline needed from a leadoff hitter. If he can't fill the leadoff void, manager Mike Scioscia will probably turn to INF Maicer Izturis. But playing Izturis means taking at-bats away from youngsters Howie Kendrick or Brandon Wood (at second base or third base). Kendrick must continue the bounce back he showed after a midseason demotion to Class AAA last year, and Morales must follow up on his MVP-caliber season last year with more of the same. PROJECTED RESERVES: C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis INF Maicer Izturis INF Robb Quinlan OF Reggie Willits OF Terry Evans The Angels decided it was necessary to trade off Gary Matthews Jr. and his contract. But the move leaves them thin in the outfield, their most vulnerable position because of the ages of Hunter, Abreu and Matsui. Willits and Evans offer the only depth there. Izturis will see plenty of action in the starting lineup in a "super-utility" role. Mathis and Napoli will once again share the catching duties, and Bobby Wilson will get an outside chance to make the team as a third catcher. TOP ROOKIES: OF Chris Pettit hit .321 with a .383 OBP and 18 stolen bases in 96 games at Class AAA last season. The Angels' lack of outfield depth could give him an opportunity this spring. C Bobby Wilson has spent the last three seasons in Class AAA, hitting .271 last year. He is out of options and could force his way onto the major league roster as a third catcher, giving manager Mike Scioscia the option of pinch-hitting for light-hitting C Jeff Mathis when he plays. INF Freddy Sandoval has hit .300 or better in each of his last three seasons in Class AA and Class AAA and can play anywhere on the infield. That versatility gives him a shot at a spot on the Angels' bench this spring. MEDICAL WATCH: --RHP Scot Shields (patellar tendon surgery on left knee in June 2009) will be closely monitored as he returns. --CF Torii Hunter (sports hernia surgery in November 2009) has fully recovered.

--RHP Scot Shields (knee surgery) has begun throwing off a mound and could appear in game action this week for the first time since last May. Shields had surgery to repair a tear in his patellar tendon last June and was eased into activities this spring. --The Angels reached contract agreements with six of their young players -- INF Brandon Wood and RHPs Kevin Jepsen, Jason Bulger, Rafael Rodriguez, Matt Palmer and Brian Stokes. RHP Rich Thompson's contract was renewed by the Angels. --RHP Fernando Rodney has been cleared to start throwing off a mound. Rodney spent the first two weeks of camp limited to long toss and calisthenics by soreness in his shins. --The Angels got a visit from the Harlem Globetrotters during their team meeting before the March 5 workout. Six members of the basketball team were brought in as a joke played on OF Bobby Abreu, who is involved in the ownership of a pro basketball team in his native Venezuela. --1B Kendry Morales finally reported to camp after missing the first week of full-squad workouts because of a delay in receiving his work visa. Morales declined to comment on the investigation by Florida police and the MLB players' union into allegedly unauthorized withdrawals from his bank account by a former employee of his former agent, Hendricks Sports Management. Morales did confirm that the missing money was the motivation for his switch to agent Scott Boras this year. BY THE NUMBERS: 26 -- Angels' major league high and club record win total in spring training last year. QUOTE TO NOTE: "He just threw some bowling balls up there." -- Angels manager Mike Scioscia on Joel Pineiro's sinking fastball.

The Angels are hoping Brandon Wood's bat is ready for the major leagues. But his glove could buy him some time to find out. "Brandon is a guy we're very, very comfortable with on the defensive end," manager Mike Scioscia said. "That will give us an important presence at third, which might take a little pressure off of what he has to do with the bat and still contribute. "We do need production from that spot. Brandon is a guy we feel -- if we have to ease him off a bit, if he's pressing or if we'll maybe let him run with some things -- that he'll get enough playing time to contribute and continue to develop and hopefully be on the positive end of this thing as we move through the season." Originally a shortstop, Wood was moved to third base two years ago and has handled the transition smoothly, continuing to play some at shortstop and even adding some first base to his resume. But it is at third base where he has a chance to step into an everyday role, replacing Chone Figgins, who signed with the Mariners as a free agent this winter. Scioscia praised Wood as having Gold Glove ability at third base with the potential to be "a difference-maker" for the Angels on defense. "That's going to be one thing in Woody's favor that's going to help," Scioscia said. "He has the makings of a terrific defender." WHERE: Tempe Diablo Stadium, Tempe, Ariz. The Angels have made Tempe their exclusive spring home since 1993, moving their minor league complex there as well after a major renovation in 2004. AUTHORITY FIGURES: Manager Mike Scioscia is the winningest manager in franchise history (900-720 in 10 seasons) and was rewarded with his second Manager of the Year award in 2009 after guiding the Angels to their fifth division title in the last six seasons despite the death of young RHP Nick Adenhart early in the season. Scioscia is the longest tenured manager in the American League and holds sway over every aspect of the organization's baseball operations. His teams are always well-versed in the fundamentals and rely on an aggressive offensive approach, putting pressure on opposing defenses with their willingness to steal, hit and run and take the extra base at every opportunity.

It was another transitional offseason for the Angels as they watched key players John Lackey, Vladimir Guerrero and Chone Figgins leave as free agents while division rivals Seattle and Texas seemed to improve. The Angels have pinned their hopes on the continued development of young players, such as Kendry Morales and Erick Aybar, who had breakout seasons in 2009 and Jered Weaver, Ervin Santana and Joe Saunders, who anchor a deep rotation. The Angels still might be the most complete team in the AL West, but the gap clearly has narrowed. ARRIVALS: RHP Joel Pineiro (free agent from Cardinals), RHP Fernando Rodney (free agent from Tigers), OF/DH Hideki Matsui (free agent from Yankees), RHP Brian Stokes (trade with Mets). DEPARTURES: RHP John Lackey (free agent, signed with Red Sox), 3B Chone Figgins (free agent, signed with Mariners), OF/DH Vladimir Guerrero (free agent, signed with Rangers), LHP Darren Oliver (free agent, signed with Rangers), RHP Kelvim Escobar (free agent, signed with Mets), OF Gary Matthews Jr. (traded to Mets), RHP Jose Arredondo (free agent, signed minor league deal with Reds), RHP Shane Loux (free agent, signed minor league deal with Astros), RHP Dustin Moseley (non-tendered, signed minor league deal with Yankees). SPRING FOCUS: Of all the Angels' free agent losses, Chone Figgins might be the most difficult to replace. INF Brandon Wood will be given a chance to step in for Figgins at third base, but the void Figgins leaves at leadoff will be harder to fill. SS Erick Aybar will get the first look there, but INF Maicer Izturis is also in the picture. The Angels will also be watching RHP Scot Shields closely this spring. Shields has been sidelined since knee surgery last June. His return to form is an X factor that could elevate the Angels' bullpen from question mark to strength. PROJECTED ROTATION: 1. RHP Jered Weaver 2. RHP Ervin Santana 3. LHP Joe Saunders 4. LHP Scott Kazmir 5. RHP Joel Pineiro The departure of John Lackey leaves the Angels' rotation without a clear ace. But the additions of Scott Kazmir by trade last season and Joel Pineiro as a free agent this winter gives them 1-through-5 depth as good as any in the league. Ervin Santana could be the key to elevating this group to an even higher level. An All-Star in 2008, Santana was hampered by a partially torn ligament in his elbow last season. If he is healthy, Santana has a dynamic power repertoire. PROJECTED BULLPEN: LHP Brian Fuentes (closer) RHP Fernando Rodney RHP Scot Shields RHP Kevin Jepsen RHP Jason Bulger RHP Brian Stokes/Matt Palmer The Angels' signing of Fernando Rodney is insurance against Scot Shields' recovery from knee surgery and Brian Fuentes' less than dominating performance at closer (despite a major league-leading 48 saves in 2009). Rodney could slide into either the setup or closer role at times. Shields was one of the most dependable setup men in baseball from 2006 through 2008. If he recovers from knee surgery to regain that form, the Angels' bullpen could be deep and formidable with Kevin Jepsen and Jason Bulger building on the progress they showed in 2009. Brian Stokes, acquired from the Mets in a trade for Gary Matthews Jr., and Matt Palmer will likely compete for the final spot in the bullpen. PROJECTED LINEUP: 1. SS Erick Aybar 2. RF Bobby Abreu 3. 1B Kendry Morales 4. CF Torii Hunter 5. DH Hideki Matsui 6. LF Juan Rivera 7. 2B Howie Kendrick 8. 3B Brandon Wood 9. C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis The Angels expect Matsui to replace Guerrero's production. Replacing Figgins at the top of the lineup will be more difficult. He developed into one of the best leadoff hitters in baseball last season. Aybar led the team with a .312 batting average last season but has shown little of the plate discipline needed from a leadoff hitter. If he can't fill the leadoff void, manager Mike Scioscia will probably turn to INF Maicer Izturis. But playing Izturis means taking at-bats away from youngsters Howie Kendrick or Brandon Wood (at second base or third base). Kendrick must continue the bounce back he showed after a midseason demotion to Class AAA last year, and Morales must follow up on his MVP-caliber season last year with more of the same. PROJECTED RESERVES: C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis INF Maicer Izturis INF Robb Quinlan OF Reggie Willits OF Terry Evans The Angels decided it was necessary to trade off Gary Matthews Jr. and his contract. But the move leaves them thin in the outfield, their most vulnerable position because of the ages of Hunter, Abreu and Matsui. Willits and Evans offer the only depth there. Izturis will see plenty of action in the starting lineup in a "super-utility" role. Mathis and Napoli will once again share the catching duties, and Bobby Wilson will get an outside chance to make the team as a third catcher. TOP ROOKIES: OF Chris Pettit hit .321 with a .383 OBP and 18 stolen bases in 96 games at Class AAA last season. The Angels' lack of outfield depth could give him an opportunity this spring. C Bobby Wilson has spent the last three seasons in Class AAA, hitting .271 last year. He is out of options and could force his way onto the major league roster as a third catcher, giving manager Mike Scioscia the option of pinch-hitting for light-hitting C Jeff Mathis when he plays. INF Freddy Sandoval has hit .300 or better in each of his last three seasons in Class AA and Class AAA and can play anywhere on the infield. That versatility gives him a shot at a spot on the Angels' bench this spring. MEDICAL WATCH: --RHP Scot Shields (patellar tendon surgery on left knee in June 2009) will be closely monitored as he returns. --CF Torii Hunter (sports hernia surgery in November 2009) has fully recovered.

--RHP Scot Shields (knee surgery) has begun throwing off a mound and could appear in game action this week for the first time since last May. Shields had surgery to repair a tear in his patellar tendon last June and was eased into activities this spring. --The Angels reached contract agreements with six of their young players -- INF Brandon Wood and RHPs Kevin Jepsen, Jason Bulger, Rafael Rodriguez, Matt Palmer and Brian Stokes. RHP Rich Thompson's contract was renewed by the Angels. --RHP Fernando Rodney has been cleared to start throwing off a mound. Rodney spent the first two weeks of camp limited to long toss and calisthenics by soreness in his shins. --The Angels got a visit from the Harlem Globetrotters during their team meeting before the March 5 workout. Six members of the basketball team were brought in as a joke played on OF Bobby Abreu, who is involved in the ownership of a pro basketball team in his native Venezuela. --1B Kendry Morales finally reported to camp after missing the first week of full-squad workouts because of a delay in receiving his work visa. Morales declined to comment on the investigation by Florida police and the MLB players' union into allegedly unauthorized withdrawals from his bank account by a former employee of his former agent, Hendricks Sports Management. Morales did confirm that the missing money was the motivation for his switch to agent Scott Boras this year. BY THE NUMBERS: 26 -- Angels' major league high and club record win total in spring training last year. QUOTE TO NOTE: "He just threw some bowling balls up there." -- Angels manager Mike Scioscia on Joel Pineiro's sinking fastball.

The Angels are hoping Brandon Wood's bat is ready for the major leagues. But his glove could buy him some time to find out. "Brandon is a guy we're very, very comfortable with on the defensive end," manager Mike Scioscia said. "That will give us an important presence at third, which might take a little pressure off of what he has to do with the bat and still contribute. "We do need production from that spot. Brandon is a guy we feel -- if we have to ease him off a bit, if he's pressing or if we'll maybe let him run with some things -- that he'll get enough playing time to contribute and continue to develop and hopefully be on the positive end of this thing as we move through the season." Originally a shortstop, Wood was moved to third base two years ago and has handled the transition smoothly, continuing to play some at shortstop and even adding some first base to his resume. But it is at third base where he has a chance to step into an everyday role, replacing Chone Figgins, who signed with the Mariners as a free agent this winter. Scioscia praised Wood as having Gold Glove ability at third base with the potential to be "a difference-maker" for the Angels on defense. "That's going to be one thing in Woody's favor that's going to help," Scioscia said. "He has the makings of a terrific defender." WHERE: Tempe Diablo Stadium, Tempe, Ariz. The Angels have made Tempe their exclusive spring home since 1993, moving their minor league complex there as well after a major renovation in 2004. AUTHORITY FIGURES: Manager Mike Scioscia is the winningest manager in franchise history (900-720 in 10 seasons) and was rewarded with his second Manager of the Year award in 2009 after guiding the Angels to their fifth division title in the last six seasons despite the death of young RHP Nick Adenhart early in the season. Scioscia is the longest tenured manager in the American League and holds sway over every aspect of the organization's baseball operations. His teams are always well-versed in the fundamentals and rely on an aggressive offensive approach, putting pressure on opposing defenses with their willingness to steal, hit and run and take the extra base at every opportunity.

It was another transitional offseason for the Angels as they watched key players John Lackey, Vladimir Guerrero and Chone Figgins leave as free agents while division rivals Seattle and Texas seemed to improve. The Angels have pinned their hopes on the continued development of young players, such as Kendry Morales and Erick Aybar, who had breakout seasons in 2009 and Jered Weaver, Ervin Santana and Joe Saunders, who anchor a deep rotation. The Angels still might be the most complete team in the AL West, but the gap clearly has narrowed. ARRIVALS: RHP Joel Pineiro (free agent from Cardinals), RHP Fernando Rodney (free agent from Tigers), OF/DH Hideki Matsui (free agent from Yankees), RHP Brian Stokes (trade with Mets). DEPARTURES: RHP John Lackey (free agent, signed with Red Sox), 3B Chone Figgins (free agent, signed with Mariners), OF/DH Vladimir Guerrero (free agent, signed with Rangers), LHP Darren Oliver (free agent, signed with Rangers), RHP Kelvim Escobar (free agent, signed with Mets), OF Gary Matthews Jr. (traded to Mets), RHP Jose Arredondo (free agent, signed minor league deal with Reds), RHP Shane Loux (free agent, signed minor league deal with Astros), RHP Dustin Moseley (non-tendered, signed minor league deal with Yankees). SPRING FOCUS: Of all the Angels' free agent losses, Chone Figgins might be the most difficult to replace. INF Brandon Wood will be given a chance to step in for Figgins at third base, but the void Figgins leaves at leadoff will be harder to fill. SS Erick Aybar will get the first look there, but INF Maicer Izturis is also in the picture. The Angels will also be watching RHP Scot Shields closely this spring. Shields has been sidelined since knee surgery last June. His return to form is an X factor that could elevate the Angels' bullpen from question mark to strength. PROJECTED ROTATION: 1. RHP Jered Weaver 2. RHP Ervin Santana 3. LHP Joe Saunders 4. LHP Scott Kazmir 5. RHP Joel Pineiro The departure of John Lackey leaves the Angels' rotation without a clear ace. But the additions of Scott Kazmir by trade last season and Joel Pineiro as a free agent this winter gives them 1-through-5 depth as good as any in the league. Ervin Santana could be the key to elevating this group to an even higher level. An All-Star in 2008, Santana was hampered by a partially torn ligament in his elbow last season. If he is healthy, Santana has a dynamic power repertoire. PROJECTED BULLPEN: LHP Brian Fuentes (closer) RHP Fernando Rodney RHP Scot Shields RHP Kevin Jepsen RHP Jason Bulger RHP Brian Stokes/Matt Palmer The Angels' signing of Fernando Rodney is insurance against Scot Shields' recovery from knee surgery and Brian Fuentes' less than dominating performance at closer (despite a major league-leading 48 saves in 2009). Rodney could slide into either the setup or closer role at times. Shields was one of the most dependable setup men in baseball from 2006 through 2008. If he recovers from knee surgery to regain that form, the Angels' bullpen could be deep and formidable with Kevin Jepsen and Jason Bulger building on the progress they showed in 2009. Brian Stokes, acquired from the Mets in a trade for Gary Matthews Jr., and Matt Palmer will likely compete for the final spot in the bullpen. PROJECTED LINEUP: 1. SS Erick Aybar 2. RF Bobby Abreu 3. 1B Kendry Morales 4. CF Torii Hunter 5. DH Hideki Matsui 6. LF Juan Rivera 7. 2B Howie Kendrick 8. 3B Brandon Wood 9. C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis The Angels expect Matsui to replace Guerrero's production. Replacing Figgins at the top of the lineup will be more difficult. He developed into one of the best leadoff hitters in baseball last season. Aybar led the team with a .312 batting average last season but has shown little of the plate discipline needed from a leadoff hitter. If he can't fill the leadoff void, manager Mike Scioscia will probably turn to INF Maicer Izturis. But playing Izturis means taking at-bats away from youngsters Howie Kendrick or Brandon Wood (at second base or third base). Kendrick must continue the bounce back he showed after a midseason demotion to Class AAA last year, and Morales must follow up on his MVP-caliber season last year with more of the same. PROJECTED RESERVES: C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis INF Maicer Izturis INF Robb Quinlan OF Reggie Willits OF Terry Evans The Angels decided it was necessary to trade off Gary Matthews Jr. and his contract. But the move leaves them thin in the outfield, their most vulnerable position because of the ages of Hunter, Abreu and Matsui. Willits and Evans offer the only depth there. Izturis will see plenty of action in the starting lineup in a "super-utility" role. Mathis and Napoli will once again share the catching duties, and Bobby Wilson will get an outside chance to make the team as a third catcher. TOP ROOKIES: OF Chris Pettit hit .321 with a .383 OBP and 18 stolen bases in 96 games at Class AAA last season. The Angels' lack of outfield depth could give him an opportunity this spring. C Bobby Wilson has spent the last three seasons in Class AAA, hitting .271 last year. He is out of options and could force his way onto the major league roster as a third catcher, giving manager Mike Scioscia the option of pinch-hitting for light-hitting C Jeff Mathis when he plays. INF Freddy Sandoval has hit .300 or better in each of his last three seasons in Class AA and Class AAA and can play anywhere on the infield. That versatility gives him a shot at a spot on the Angels' bench this spring. MEDICAL WATCH: --RHP Scot Shields (patellar tendon surgery on left knee in June 2009) will be closely monitored as he returns. --CF Torii Hunter (sports hernia surgery in November 2009) has fully recovered.

--RHP Scot Shields (knee surgery) has begun throwing off a mound and could appear in game action this week for the first time since last May. Shields had surgery to repair a tear in his patellar tendon last June and was eased into activities this spring. --The Angels reached contract agreements with six of their young players -- INF Brandon Wood and RHPs Kevin Jepsen, Jason Bulger, Rafael Rodriguez, Matt Palmer and Brian Stokes. RHP Rich Thompson's contract was renewed by the Angels. --RHP Fernando Rodney has been cleared to start throwing off a mound. Rodney spent the first two weeks of camp limited to long toss and calisthenics by soreness in his shins. --The Angels got a visit from the Harlem Globetrotters during their team meeting before the March 5 workout. Six members of the basketball team were brought in as a joke played on OF Bobby Abreu, who is involved in the ownership of a pro basketball team in his native Venezuela. --1B Kendry Morales finally reported to camp after missing the first week of full-squad workouts because of a delay in receiving his work visa. Morales declined to comment on the investigation by Florida police and the MLB players' union into allegedly unauthorized withdrawals from his bank account by a former employee of his former agent, Hendricks Sports Management. Morales did confirm that the missing money was the motivation for his switch to agent Scott Boras this year. BY THE NUMBERS: 26 -- Angels' major league high and club record win total in spring training last year. QUOTE TO NOTE: "He just threw some bowling balls up there." -- Angels manager Mike Scioscia on Joel Pineiro's sinking fastball.

The Angels are hoping Brandon Wood's bat is ready for the major leagues. But his glove could buy him some time to find out. "Brandon is a guy we're very, very comfortable with on the defensive end," manager Mike Scioscia said. "That will give us an important presence at third, which might take a little pressure off of what he has to do with the bat and still contribute. "We do need production from that spot. Brandon is a guy we feel -- if we have to ease him off a bit, if he's pressing or if we'll maybe let him run with some things -- that he'll get enough playing time to contribute and continue to develop and hopefully be on the positive end of this thing as we move through the season." Originally a shortstop, Wood was moved to third base two years ago and has handled the transition smoothly, continuing to play some at shortstop and even adding some first base to his resume. But it is at third base where he has a chance to step into an everyday role, replacing Chone Figgins, who signed with the Mariners as a free agent this winter. Scioscia praised Wood as having Gold Glove ability at third base with the potential to be "a difference-maker" for the Angels on defense. "That's going to be one thing in Woody's favor that's going to help," Scioscia said. "He has the makings of a terrific defender." WHERE: Tempe Diablo Stadium, Tempe, Ariz. The Angels have made Tempe their exclusive spring home since 1993, moving their minor league complex there as well after a major renovation in 2004. AUTHORITY FIGURES: Manager Mike Scioscia is the winningest manager in franchise history (900-720 in 10 seasons) and was rewarded with his second Manager of the Year award in 2009 after guiding the Angels to their fifth division title in the last six seasons despite the death of young RHP Nick Adenhart early in the season. Scioscia is the longest tenured manager in the American League and holds sway over every aspect of the organization's baseball operations. His teams are always well-versed in the fundamentals and rely on an aggressive offensive approach, putting pressure on opposing defenses with their willingness to steal, hit and run and take the extra base at every opportunity.

It was another transitional offseason for the Angels as they watched key players John Lackey, Vladimir Guerrero and Chone Figgins leave as free agents while division rivals Seattle and Texas seemed to improve. The Angels have pinned their hopes on the continued development of young players, such as Kendry Morales and Erick Aybar, who had breakout seasons in 2009 and Jered Weaver, Ervin Santana and Joe Saunders, who anchor a deep rotation. The Angels still might be the most complete team in the AL West, but the gap clearly has narrowed. ARRIVALS: RHP Joel Pineiro (free agent from Cardinals), RHP Fernando Rodney (free agent from Tigers), OF/DH Hideki Matsui (free agent from Yankees), RHP Brian Stokes (trade with Mets). DEPARTURES: RHP John Lackey (free agent, signed with Red Sox), 3B Chone Figgins (free agent, signed with Mariners), OF/DH Vladimir Guerrero (free agent, signed with Rangers), LHP Darren Oliver (free agent, signed with Rangers), RHP Kelvim Escobar (free agent, signed with Mets), OF Gary Matthews Jr. (traded to Mets), RHP Jose Arredondo (free agent, signed minor league deal with Reds), RHP Shane Loux (free agent, signed minor league deal with Astros), RHP Dustin Moseley (non-tendered, signed minor league deal with Yankees). SPRING FOCUS: Of all the Angels' free agent losses, Chone Figgins might be the most difficult to replace. INF Brandon Wood will be given a chance to step in for Figgins at third base, but the void Figgins leaves at leadoff will be harder to fill. SS Erick Aybar will get the first look there, but INF Maicer Izturis is also in the picture. The Angels will also be watching RHP Scot Shields closely this spring. Shields has been sidelined since knee surgery last June. His return to form is an X factor that could elevate the Angels' bullpen from question mark to strength. PROJECTED ROTATION: 1. RHP Jered Weaver 2. RHP Ervin Santana 3. LHP Joe Saunders 4. LHP Scott Kazmir 5. RHP Joel Pineiro The departure of John Lackey leaves the Angels' rotation without a clear ace. But the additions of Scott Kazmir by trade last season and Joel Pineiro as a free agent this winter gives them 1-through-5 depth as good as any in the league. Ervin Santana could be the key to elevating this group to an even higher level. An All-Star in 2008, Santana was hampered by a partially torn ligament in his elbow last season. If he is healthy, Santana has a dynamic power repertoire. PROJECTED BULLPEN: LHP Brian Fuentes (closer) RHP Fernando Rodney RHP Scot Shields RHP Kevin Jepsen RHP Jason Bulger RHP Brian Stokes/Matt Palmer The Angels' signing of Fernando Rodney is insurance against Scot Shields' recovery from knee surgery and Brian Fuentes' less than dominating performance at closer (despite a major league-leading 48 saves in 2009). Rodney could slide into either the setup or closer role at times. Shields was one of the most dependable setup men in baseball from 2006 through 2008. If he recovers from knee surgery to regain that form, the Angels' bullpen could be deep and formidable with Kevin Jepsen and Jason Bulger building on the progress they showed in 2009. Brian Stokes, acquired from the Mets in a trade for Gary Matthews Jr., and Matt Palmer will likely compete for the final spot in the bullpen. PROJECTED LINEUP: 1. SS Erick Aybar 2. RF Bobby Abreu 3. 1B Kendry Morales 4. CF Torii Hunter 5. DH Hideki Matsui 6. LF Juan Rivera 7. 2B Howie Kendrick 8. 3B Brandon Wood 9. C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis The Angels expect Matsui to replace Guerrero's production. Replacing Figgins at the top of the lineup will be more difficult. He developed into one of the best leadoff hitters in baseball last season. Aybar led the team with a .312 batting average last season but has shown little of the plate discipline needed from a leadoff hitter. If he can't fill the leadoff void, manager Mike Scioscia will probably turn to INF Maicer Izturis. But playing Izturis means taking at-bats away from youngsters Howie Kendrick or Brandon Wood (at second base or third base). Kendrick must continue the bounce back he showed after a midseason demotion to Class AAA last year, and Morales must follow up on his MVP-caliber season last year with more of the same. PROJECTED RESERVES: C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis INF Maicer Izturis INF Robb Quinlan OF Reggie Willits OF Terry Evans The Angels decided it was necessary to trade off Gary Matthews Jr. and his contract. But the move leaves them thin in the outfield, their most vulnerable position because of the ages of Hunter, Abreu and Matsui. Willits and Evans offer the only depth there. Izturis will see plenty of action in the starting lineup in a "super-utility" role. Mathis and Napoli will once again share the catching duties, and Bobby Wilson will get an outside chance to make the team as a third catcher. TOP ROOKIES: OF Chris Pettit hit .321 with a .383 OBP and 18 stolen bases in 96 games at Class AAA last season. The Angels' lack of outfield depth could give him an opportunity this spring. C Bobby Wilson has spent the last three seasons in Class AAA, hitting .271 last year. He is out of options and could force his way onto the major league roster as a third catcher, giving manager Mike Scioscia the option of pinch-hitting for light-hitting C Jeff Mathis when he plays. INF Freddy Sandoval has hit .300 or better in each of his last three seasons in Class AA and Class AAA and can play anywhere on the infield. That versatility gives him a shot at a spot on the Angels' bench this spring. MEDICAL WATCH: --RHP Scot Shields (patellar tendon surgery on left knee in June 2009) will be closely monitored as he returns. --CF Torii Hunter (sports hernia surgery in November 2009) has fully recovered.

--RHP Scot Shields (knee surgery) has begun throwing off a mound and could appear in game action this week for the first time since last May. Shields had surgery to repair a tear in his patellar tendon last June and was eased into activities this spring. --The Angels reached contract agreements with six of their young players -- INF Brandon Wood and RHPs Kevin Jepsen, Jason Bulger, Rafael Rodriguez, Matt Palmer and Brian Stokes. RHP Rich Thompson's contract was renewed by the Angels. --RHP Fernando Rodney has been cleared to start throwing off a mound. Rodney spent the first two weeks of camp limited to long toss and calisthenics by soreness in his shins. --The Angels got a visit from the Harlem Globetrotters during their team meeting before the March 5 workout. Six members of the basketball team were brought in as a joke played on OF Bobby Abreu, who is involved in the ownership of a pro basketball team in his native Venezuela. --1B Kendry Morales finally reported to camp after missing the first week of full-squad workouts because of a delay in receiving his work visa. Morales declined to comment on the investigation by Florida police and the MLB players' union into allegedly unauthorized withdrawals from his bank account by a former employee of his former agent, Hendricks Sports Management. Morales did confirm that the missing money was the motivation for his switch to agent Scott Boras this year. BY THE NUMBERS: 26 -- Angels' major league high and club record win total in spring training last year. QUOTE TO NOTE: "He just threw some bowling balls up there." -- Angels manager Mike Scioscia on Joel Pineiro's sinking fastball.

The Angels are hoping Brandon Wood's bat is ready for the major leagues. But his glove could buy him some time to find out. "Brandon is a guy we're very, very comfortable with on the defensive end," manager Mike Scioscia said. "That will give us an important presence at third, which might take a little pressure off of what he has to do with the bat and still contribute. "We do need production from that spot. Brandon is a guy we feel -- if we have to ease him off a bit, if he's pressing or if we'll maybe let him run with some things -- that he'll get enough playing time to contribute and continue to develop and hopefully be on the positive end of this thing as we move through the season." Originally a shortstop, Wood was moved to third base two years ago and has handled the transition smoothly, continuing to play some at shortstop and even adding some first base to his resume. But it is at third base where he has a chance to step into an everyday role, replacing Chone Figgins, who signed with the Mariners as a free agent this winter. Scioscia praised Wood as having Gold Glove ability at third base with the potential to be "a difference-maker" for the Angels on defense. "That's going to be one thing in Woody's favor that's going to help," Scioscia said. "He has the makings of a terrific defender." WHERE: Tempe Diablo Stadium, Tempe, Ariz. The Angels have made Tempe their exclusive spring home since 1993, moving their minor league complex there as well after a major renovation in 2004. AUTHORITY FIGURES: Manager Mike Scioscia is the winningest manager in franchise history (900-720 in 10 seasons) and was rewarded with his second Manager of the Year award in 2009 after guiding the Angels to their fifth division title in the last six seasons despite the death of young RHP Nick Adenhart early in the season. Scioscia is the longest tenured manager in the American League and holds sway over every aspect of the organization's baseball operations. His teams are always well-versed in the fundamentals and rely on an aggressive offensive approach, putting pressure on opposing defenses with their willingness to steal, hit and run and take the extra base at every opportunity.

It was another transitional offseason for the Angels as they watched key players John Lackey, Vladimir Guerrero and Chone Figgins leave as free agents while division rivals Seattle and Texas seemed to improve. The Angels have pinned their hopes on the continued development of young players, such as Kendry Morales and Erick Aybar, who had breakout seasons in 2009 and Jered Weaver, Ervin Santana and Joe Saunders, who anchor a deep rotation. The Angels still might be the most complete team in the AL West, but the gap clearly has narrowed. ARRIVALS: RHP Joel Pineiro (free agent from Cardinals), RHP Fernando Rodney (free agent from Tigers), OF/DH Hideki Matsui (free agent from Yankees), RHP Brian Stokes (trade with Mets). DEPARTURES: RHP John Lackey (free agent, signed with Red Sox), 3B Chone Figgins (free agent, signed with Mariners), OF/DH Vladimir Guerrero (free agent, signed with Rangers), LHP Darren Oliver (free agent, signed with Rangers), RHP Kelvim Escobar (free agent, signed with Mets), OF Gary Matthews Jr. (traded to Mets), RHP Jose Arredondo (free agent, signed minor league deal with Reds), RHP Shane Loux (free agent, signed minor league deal with Astros), RHP Dustin Moseley (non-tendered, signed minor league deal with Yankees). SPRING FOCUS: Of all the Angels' free agent losses, Chone Figgins might be the most difficult to replace. INF Brandon Wood will be given a chance to step in for Figgins at third base, but the void Figgins leaves at leadoff will be harder to fill. SS Erick Aybar will get the first look there, but INF Maicer Izturis is also in the picture. The Angels will also be watching RHP Scot Shields closely this spring. Shields has been sidelined since knee surgery last June. His return to form is an X factor that could elevate the Angels' bullpen from question mark to strength. PROJECTED ROTATION: 1. RHP Jered Weaver 2. RHP Ervin Santana 3. LHP Joe Saunders 4. LHP Scott Kazmir 5. RHP Joel Pineiro The departure of John Lackey leaves the Angels' rotation without a clear ace. But the additions of Scott Kazmir by trade last season and Joel Pineiro as a free agent this winter gives them 1-through-5 depth as good as any in the league. Ervin Santana could be the key to elevating this group to an even higher level. An All-Star in 2008, Santana was hampered by a partially torn ligament in his elbow last season. If he is healthy, Santana has a dynamic power repertoire. PROJECTED BULLPEN: LHP Brian Fuentes (closer) RHP Fernando Rodney RHP Scot Shields RHP Kevin Jepsen RHP Jason Bulger RHP Brian Stokes/Matt Palmer The Angels' signing of Fernando Rodney is insurance against Scot Shields' recovery from knee surgery and Brian Fuentes' less than dominating performance at closer (despite a major league-leading 48 saves in 2009). Rodney could slide into either the setup or closer role at times. Shields was one of the most dependable setup men in baseball from 2006 through 2008. If he recovers from knee surgery to regain that form, the Angels' bullpen could be deep and formidable with Kevin Jepsen and Jason Bulger building on the progress they showed in 2009. Brian Stokes, acquired from the Mets in a trade for Gary Matthews Jr., and Matt Palmer will likely compete for the final spot in the bullpen. PROJECTED LINEUP: 1. SS Erick Aybar 2. RF Bobby Abreu 3. 1B Kendry Morales 4. CF Torii Hunter 5. DH Hideki Matsui 6. LF Juan Rivera 7. 2B Howie Kendrick 8. 3B Brandon Wood 9. C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis The Angels expect Matsui to replace Guerrero's production. Replacing Figgins at the top of the lineup will be more difficult. He developed into one of the best leadoff hitters in baseball last season. Aybar led the team with a .312 batting average last season but has shown little of the plate discipline needed from a leadoff hitter. If he can't fill the leadoff void, manager Mike Scioscia will probably turn to INF Maicer Izturis. But playing Izturis means taking at-bats away from youngsters Howie Kendrick or Brandon Wood (at second base or third base). Kendrick must continue the bounce back he showed after a midseason demotion to Class AAA last year, and Morales must follow up on his MVP-caliber season last year with more of the same. PROJECTED RESERVES: C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis INF Maicer Izturis INF Robb Quinlan OF Reggie Willits OF Terry Evans The Angels decided it was necessary to trade off Gary Matthews Jr. and his contract. But the move leaves them thin in the outfield, their most vulnerable position because of the ages of Hunter, Abreu and Matsui. Willits and Evans offer the only depth there. Izturis will see plenty of action in the starting lineup in a "super-utility" role. Mathis and Napoli will once again share the catching duties, and Bobby Wilson will get an outside chance to make the team as a third catcher. TOP ROOKIES: OF Chris Pettit hit .321 with a .383 OBP and 18 stolen bases in 96 games at Class AAA last season. The Angels' lack of outfield depth could give him an opportunity this spring. C Bobby Wilson has spent the last three seasons in Class AAA, hitting .271 last year. He is out of options and could force his way onto the major league roster as a third catcher, giving manager Mike Scioscia the option of pinch-hitting for light-hitting C Jeff Mathis when he plays. INF Freddy Sandoval has hit .300 or better in each of his last three seasons in Class AA and Class AAA and can play anywhere on the infield. That versatility gives him a shot at a spot on the Angels' bench this spring. MEDICAL WATCH: --RHP Scot Shields (patellar tendon surgery on left knee in June 2009) will be closely monitored as he returns. --CF Torii Hunter (sports hernia surgery in November 2009) has fully recovered.

--RHP Scot Shields (knee surgery) has begun throwing off a mound and could appear in game action this week for the first time since last May. Shields had surgery to repair a tear in his patellar tendon last June and was eased into activities this spring. --The Angels reached contract agreements with six of their young players -- INF Brandon Wood and RHPs Kevin Jepsen, Jason Bulger, Rafael Rodriguez, Matt Palmer and Brian Stokes. RHP Rich Thompson's contract was renewed by the Angels. --RHP Fernando Rodney has been cleared to start throwing off a mound. Rodney spent the first two weeks of camp limited to long toss and calisthenics by soreness in his shins. --The Angels got a visit from the Harlem Globetrotters during their team meeting before the March 5 workout. Six members of the basketball team were brought in as a joke played on OF Bobby Abreu, who is involved in the ownership of a pro basketball team in his native Venezuela. --1B Kendry Morales finally reported to camp after missing the first week of full-squad workouts because of a delay in receiving his work visa. Morales declined to comment on the investigation by Florida police and the MLB players' union into allegedly unauthorized withdrawals from his bank account by a former employee of his former agent, Hendricks Sports Management. Morales did confirm that the missing money was the motivation for his switch to agent Scott Boras this year. BY THE NUMBERS: 26 -- Angels' major league high and club record win total in spring training last year. QUOTE TO NOTE: "He just threw some bowling balls up there." -- Angels manager Mike Scioscia on Joel Pineiro's sinking fastball.

The Angels are hoping Brandon Wood's bat is ready for the major leagues. But his glove could buy him some time to find out. "Brandon is a guy we're very, very comfortable with on the defensive end," manager Mike Scioscia said. "That will give us an important presence at third, which might take a little pressure off of what he has to do with the bat and still contribute. "We do need production from that spot. Brandon is a guy we feel -- if we have to ease him off a bit, if he's pressing or if we'll maybe let him run with some things -- that he'll get enough playing time to contribute and continue to develop and hopefully be on the positive end of this thing as we move through the season." Originally a shortstop, Wood was moved to third base two years ago and has handled the transition smoothly, continuing to play some at shortstop and even adding some first base to his resume. But it is at third base where he has a chance to step into an everyday role, replacing Chone Figgins, who signed with the Mariners as a free agent this winter. Scioscia praised Wood as having Gold Glove ability at third base with the potential to be "a difference-maker" for the Angels on defense. "That's going to be one thing in Woody's favor that's going to help," Scioscia said. "He has the makings of a terrific defender." WHERE: Tempe Diablo Stadium, Tempe, Ariz. The Angels have made Tempe their exclusive spring home since 1993, moving their minor league complex there as well after a major renovation in 2004. AUTHORITY FIGURES: Manager Mike Scioscia is the winningest manager in franchise history (900-720 in 10 seasons) and was rewarded with his second Manager of the Year award in 2009 after guiding the Angels to their fifth division title in the last six seasons despite the death of young RHP Nick Adenhart early in the season. Scioscia is the longest tenured manager in the American League and holds sway over every aspect of the organization's baseball operations. His teams are always well-versed in the fundamentals and rely on an aggressive offensive approach, putting pressure on opposing defenses with their willingness to steal, hit and run and take the extra base at every opportunity.

It was another transitional offseason for the Angels as they watched key players John Lackey, Vladimir Guerrero and Chone Figgins leave as free agents while division rivals Seattle and Texas seemed to improve. The Angels have pinned their hopes on the continued development of young players, such as Kendry Morales and Erick Aybar, who had breakout seasons in 2009 and Jered Weaver, Ervin Santana and Joe Saunders, who anchor a deep rotation. The Angels still might be the most complete team in the AL West, but the gap clearly has narrowed. ARRIVALS: RHP Joel Pineiro (free agent from Cardinals), RHP Fernando Rodney (free agent from Tigers), OF/DH Hideki Matsui (free agent from Yankees), RHP Brian Stokes (trade with Mets). DEPARTURES: RHP John Lackey (free agent, signed with Red Sox), 3B Chone Figgins (free agent, signed with Mariners), OF/DH Vladimir Guerrero (free agent, signed with Rangers), LHP Darren Oliver (free agent, signed with Rangers), RHP Kelvim Escobar (free agent, signed with Mets), OF Gary Matthews Jr. (traded to Mets), RHP Jose Arredondo (free agent, signed minor league deal with Reds), RHP Shane Loux (free agent, signed minor league deal with Astros), RHP Dustin Moseley (non-tendered, signed minor league deal with Yankees). SPRING FOCUS: Of all the Angels' free agent losses, Chone Figgins might be the most difficult to replace. INF Brandon Wood will be given a chance to step in for Figgins at third base, but the void Figgins leaves at leadoff will be harder to fill. SS Erick Aybar will get the first look there, but INF Maicer Izturis is also in the picture. The Angels will also be watching RHP Scot Shields closely this spring. Shields has been sidelined since knee surgery last June. His return to form is an X factor that could elevate the Angels' bullpen from question mark to strength. PROJECTED ROTATION: 1. RHP Jered Weaver 2. RHP Ervin Santana 3. LHP Joe Saunders 4. LHP Scott Kazmir 5. RHP Joel Pineiro The departure of John Lackey leaves the Angels' rotation without a clear ace. But the additions of Scott Kazmir by trade last season and Joel Pineiro as a free agent this winter gives them 1-through-5 depth as good as any in the league. Ervin Santana could be the key to elevating this group to an even higher level. An All-Star in 2008, Santana was hampered by a partially torn ligament in his elbow last season. If he is healthy, Santana has a dynamic power repertoire. PROJECTED BULLPEN: LHP Brian Fuentes (closer) RHP Fernando Rodney RHP Scot Shields RHP Kevin Jepsen RHP Jason Bulger RHP Brian Stokes/Matt Palmer The Angels' signing of Fernando Rodney is insurance against Scot Shields' recovery from knee surgery and Brian Fuentes' less than dominating performance at closer (despite a major league-leading 48 saves in 2009). Rodney could slide into either the setup or closer role at times. Shields was one of the most dependable setup men in baseball from 2006 through 2008. If he recovers from knee surgery to regain that form, the Angels' bullpen could be deep and formidable with Kevin Jepsen and Jason Bulger building on the progress they showed in 2009. Brian Stokes, acquired from the Mets in a trade for Gary Matthews Jr., and Matt Palmer will likely compete for the final spot in the bullpen. PROJECTED LINEUP: 1. SS Erick Aybar 2. RF Bobby Abreu 3. 1B Kendry Morales 4. CF Torii Hunter 5. DH Hideki Matsui 6. LF Juan Rivera 7. 2B Howie Kendrick 8. 3B Brandon Wood 9. C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis The Angels expect Matsui to replace Guerrero's production. Replacing Figgins at the top of the lineup will be more difficult. He developed into one of the best leadoff hitters in baseball last season. Aybar led the team with a .312 batting average last season but has shown little of the plate discipline needed from a leadoff hitter. If he can't fill the leadoff void, manager Mike Scioscia will probably turn to INF Maicer Izturis. But playing Izturis means taking at-bats away from youngsters Howie Kendrick or Brandon Wood (at second base or third base). Kendrick must continue the bounce back he showed after a midseason demotion to Class AAA last year, and Morales must follow up on his MVP-caliber season last year with more of the same. PROJECTED RESERVES: C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis INF Maicer Izturis INF Robb Quinlan OF Reggie Willits OF Terry Evans The Angels decided it was necessary to trade off Gary Matthews Jr. and his contract. But the move leaves them thin in the outfield, their most vulnerable position because of the ages of Hunter, Abreu and Matsui. Willits and Evans offer the only depth there. Izturis will see plenty of action in the starting lineup in a "super-utility" role. Mathis and Napoli will once again share the catching duties, and Bobby Wilson will get an outside chance to make the team as a third catcher. TOP ROOKIES: OF Chris Pettit hit .321 with a .383 OBP and 18 stolen bases in 96 games at Class AAA last season. The Angels' lack of outfield depth could give him an opportunity this spring. C Bobby Wilson has spent the last three seasons in Class AAA, hitting .271 last year. He is out of options and could force his way onto the major league roster as a third catcher, giving manager Mike Scioscia the option of pinch-hitting for light-hitting C Jeff Mathis when he plays. INF Freddy Sandoval has hit .300 or better in each of his last three seasons in Class AA and Class AAA and can play anywhere on the infield. That versatility gives him a shot at a spot on the Angels' bench this spring. MEDICAL WATCH: --RHP Scot Shields (patellar tendon surgery on left knee in June 2009) will be closely monitored as he returns. --CF Torii Hunter (sports hernia surgery in November 2009) has fully recovered.

It was another transitional offseason for the Angels as they watched key players John Lackey, Vladimir Guerrero and Chone Figgins leave as free agents while division rivals Seattle and Texas seemed to improve. The Angels have pinned their hopes on the continued development of young players, such as Kendry Morales and Erick Aybar, who had breakout seasons in 2009 and Jered Weaver, Ervin Santana and Joe Saunders, who anchor a deep rotation. The Angels still might be the most complete team in the AL West, but the gap clearly has narrowed. ARRIVALS: RHP Joel Pineiro (free agent from Cardinals), RHP Fernando Rodney (free agent from Tigers), OF/DH Hideki Matsui (free agent from Yankees), RHP Brian Stokes (trade with Mets). DEPARTURES: RHP John Lackey (free agent, signed with Red Sox), 3B Chone Figgins (free agent, signed with Mariners), OF/DH Vladimir Guerrero (free agent, signed with Rangers), LHP Darren Oliver (free agent, signed with Rangers), RHP Kelvim Escobar (free agent, signed with Mets), OF Gary Matthews Jr. (traded to Mets), RHP Jose Arredondo (free agent, signed minor league deal with Reds), RHP Shane Loux (free agent, signed minor league deal with Astros), RHP Dustin Moseley (non-tendered, signed minor league deal with Yankees). SPRING FOCUS: Of all the Angels' free agent losses, Chone Figgins might be the most difficult to replace. INF Brandon Wood will be given a chance to step in for Figgins at third base, but the void Figgins leaves at leadoff will be harder to fill. SS Erick Aybar will get the first look there, but INF Maicer Izturis is also in the picture. The Angels will also be watching RHP Scot Shields closely this spring. Shields has been sidelined since knee surgery last June. His return to form is an X factor that could elevate the Angels' bullpen from question mark to strength. PROJECTED ROTATION: 1. RHP Jered Weaver 2. RHP Ervin Santana 3. LHP Joe Saunders 4. LHP Scott Kazmir 5. RHP Joel Pineiro The departure of John Lackey leaves the Angels' rotation without a clear ace. But the additions of Scott Kazmir by trade last season and Joel Pineiro as a free agent this winter gives them 1-through-5 depth as good as any in the league. Ervin Santana could be the key to elevating this group to an even higher level. An All-Star in 2008, Santana was hampered by a partially torn ligament in his elbow last season. If he is healthy, Santana has a dynamic power repertoire. PROJECTED BULLPEN: LHP Brian Fuentes (closer) RHP Fernando Rodney RHP Scot Shields RHP Kevin Jepsen RHP Jason Bulger RHP Brian Stokes/Matt Palmer The Angels' signing of Fernando Rodney is insurance against Scot Shields' recovery from knee surgery and Brian Fuentes' less than dominating performance at closer (despite a major league-leading 48 saves in 2009). Rodney could slide into either the setup or closer role at times. Shields was one of the most dependable setup men in baseball from 2006 through 2008. If he recovers from knee surgery to regain that form, the Angels' bullpen could be deep and formidable with Kevin Jepsen and Jason Bulger building on the progress they showed in 2009. Brian Stokes, acquired from the Mets in a trade for Gary Matthews Jr., and Matt Palmer will likely compete for the final spot in the bullpen. PROJECTED LINEUP: 1. SS Erick Aybar 2. RF Bobby Abreu 3. 1B Kendry Morales 4. CF Torii Hunter 5. DH Hideki Matsui 6. LF Juan Rivera 7. 2B Howie Kendrick 8. 3B Brandon Wood 9. C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis The Angels expect Matsui to replace Guerrero's production. Replacing Figgins at the top of the lineup will be more difficult. He developed into one of the best leadoff hitters in baseball last season. Aybar led the team with a .312 batting average last season but has shown little of the plate discipline needed from a leadoff hitter. If he can't fill the leadoff void, manager Mike Scioscia will probably turn to INF Maicer Izturis. But playing Izturis means taking at-bats away from youngsters Howie Kendrick or Brandon Wood (at second base or third base). Kendrick must continue the bounce back he showed after a midseason demotion to Class AAA last year, and Morales must follow up on his MVP-caliber season last year with more of the same. PROJECTED RESERVES: C Mike Napoli/Jeff Mathis INF Maicer Izturis INF Robb Quinlan OF Reggie Willits OF Terry Evans The Angels decided it was necessary to trade off Gary Matthews Jr. and his contract. But the move leaves them thin in the outfield, their most vulnerable position because of the ages of Hunter, Abreu and Matsui. Willits and Evans offer the only depth there. Izturis will see plenty of action in the starting lineup in a "super-utility" role. Mathis and Napoli will once again share the catching duties, and Bobby Wilson will get an outside chance to make the team as a third catcher. TOP ROOKIES: OF Chris Pettit hit .321 with a .383 OBP and 18 stolen bases in 96 games at Class AAA last season. The Angels' lack of outfield depth could give him an opportunity this spring. C Bobby Wilson has spent the last three seasons in Class AAA, hitting .271 last year. He is out of options and could force his way onto the major league roster as a third catcher, giving manager Mike Scioscia the option of pinch-hitting for light-hitting C Jeff Mathis when he plays. INF Freddy Sandoval has hit .300 or better in each of his last three seasons in Class AA and Class AAA and can play anywhere on the infield. That versatility gives him a shot at a spot on the Angels' bench this spring. MEDICAL WATCH: --RHP Scot Shields (patellar tendon surgery on left knee in June 2009) will be closely monitored as he returns. --CF Torii Hunter (sports hernia surgery in November 2009) has fully recovered.

--RHP Scot Shields (knee surgery) has begun participating in defensive drills and flat-ground throwing sessions and could be cleared to start throwing off a mound this week. Shields was shut down in May of last season and had surgery to repair a tear in his patellar tendon in June. --1B Kendry Morales missed the first four days of full-squad workouts while dealing with immigration paperwork. But Morales has other issues to deal with as well. According to an ESPN.com report, the police department in Coral Springs, Fla. and the MLB players' union are investigating a former employee of Hendricks Sports Management regarding unauthorized withdrawals from Morales' bank account totaling $300,000. Morales dropped Hendricks as his agent recently, switching to Scott Boras. --RHP Fernando Rodney was limited to long-toss throwing sessions and limited conditioning work because of some minor leg issues. He was expected to be cleared for full workouts soon. --Manager Mike Scioscia has decided on at least one thing about his 2010 batting order. "(Bobby) Abreu is going to hit second right now," Scioscia said. "It would take some dynamics of the lineup not working to move him to third." Abreu made 50 starts as the No. 2 hitter last season and 95 in the third spot. --DH Hideki Matsui will be given a chance in spring training to prove that his knees are strong enough to handle occasional duty in left field. If Matsui can play in the outfield, it would allow Scioscia to rest Torii Hunter and Bobby Abreu at DH at times. "Versatility breeds depth," Scioscia said. "It's something we'll explore. But we need him (Matsui) swinging the bat, first and foremost." BY THE NUMBERS: 7.5 -- Strikeouts per nine innings for LHP Brian Fuentes in 2009, the lowest rate of his career. QUOTE TO NOTE: "I don't want to say I'm the leader. Maybe I'm a Shaolin monk. I'd watch it on all those karate movies when I was a kid. They're the old monks with the long eyebrows and the long mustaches, the ones you train, and then they come back and try to kill you later on, like these young guys (on the Angels). You train them, and they try to get you out of the game after awhile." -- CF Torii Hunter, explaining his role on the club this season.

Brian Fuentes did his job well enough last season to lead the major leagues with 48 saves. But he understands why some Angels fans covered their eyes when he came into games. "It's an intense job," Fuentes said of closing out games. "I could have been more consistent. It's definitely not easy to close out a game, but I definitely think I shouldn't have had as low a percentage as I did. I'd like to have had fewer blown saves and been more consistent." The Angels signed another closer, Fernando Rodney, as a free agent this offseason. Rodney had his own problems with the Tigers last season but managed to close out 37 of 38 save opportunities. However, manager Mike Scioscia insists Rodney was not brought in to take Fuentes' job -- just to make that job easier by giving Scioscia another setup option along with young Kevin Jepsen and veteran Scot Shields (recovering from knee surgery). "Brian Fuentes had a terrific season for us last year," Scioscia said. "With Shields and Rodney and Fuentes at the back of our bullpen -- those are some power arms that will be important for us to hold leads late in game. We're very comfortable that Brian is going to be that presence at the back of the bullpen." Roles will evolve as the season goes on, Scioscia said. A year ago, the Angels' bullpen depth "evaporated" because of injuries to Shields and Jose Arredondo. "I expect better pitching than what we had last year," Scioscia said. "When you lose John Lackey and you lose Darren Oliver (to free agency), maybe it sounds a little contradictory. But I think we're deeper as a whole. ... In the bullpen, there's no doubt we have more depth than at any point last year." TOP CANDIDATE TO SURPRISE: RHP Ervin Santana. Santana has seemed to alternate good and bad seasons lately. Last year, he was diagnosed with a partially torn ligament in his pitching elbow and spent two long stretches on the DL, not pitching well when he returned. If Santana's elbow has fully recovered, though, he has a dynamic power repertoire and could fill the "ace" void left by the free agent departure of John Lackey. TOP CANDIDATE TO DISAPPOINT: 1B Kendry Morales. Morales was a revelation last season, taking the spot vacated when the Angels were unable to re-sign Mark Teixeira. Morales' MVP-caliber season far exceeded the Angels' expectations in his first full season as a big-leaguer. But now the Angels are counting on Morales to repeat that performance, which could be asking too much of the 26-year-old switch-hitter. AUTHORITY FIGURES: Manager Mike Scioscia is the winningest manager in franchise history (900-720 in 10 seasons) and was rewarded with his second Manager of the Year award in 2009 after guiding the Angels to their fifth division title in the last six seasons despite the death of young RHP Nick Adenhart early in the season. Scioscia is the longest tenured manager in the American League and holds sway over every aspect of the organization's baseball operations. His teams are always well-versed in the fundamentals and rely on an aggressive offensive approach, putting pressure on opposing defenses with their willingness to steal, hit and run and take the extra base at every opportunity.