The Atlanta Braves (2-1) head to Fort Myers to face the Boston Red Sox (2-1) today at 1:05. As usual, the game is found on Atlanta-area radio and streaming audio for MLB.tv subscribers.
Braves Lineup:
1. Martin Prado, LF
2. Jordan Schafer, CF
3. Jason Heyward, RF
4. Dan Uggla, 2B
5. Eric Hinske, DH
6. Alex Gonzalez, SS
7. Freddie Freeman, 1B
8. David Ross, C
9. Ed Lucas, 3B
Tim Hudson, SP
Pitching Lineup:
Hudson, Craig Kimbrel, Scott Proctor, Cristhian Martinez, Anthony Varvaro, Arodys Vizcaino.
Don't be alarmed by the lack of a Chipper Jones in the lineup. He is taking today off, returning to DH Thursday and eyeing a start at third base Friday, according to Carroll Rogers.
The only things really worth keeping an eye on from the positional starters are the usuals: Prado's defense in left and Schafer's bat. If it means anything at all, which it probably doesn't, I'm at least glad to see Heyward ahead of Uggla in the order.
There are a few reasons to watch the pitching today. Hudson, of course, is getting his first innings of spring. Kimbrel is looking to rebound from a rough first outing in which he had very shaky control and gave up a couple hits. Proctor is looking to rebound from allowing the game-winning three-run home run to Russ Adams a few days ago, and any time he takes the mound it's worth watching as he is slated to be the last reliever in the pen.
But right behind Proctor is Martinez, who is considered one of Proctor's main competitors for that spot. Varvaro is getting a lot of action early, but I'm not sure if that means he's getting long looks or he will be gone soon. And last but certainly not least is Vizcaino, listed as my No. 6 prospect in the Braves system. He is getting his first taste of spring camp and is certainly the one to focus on today.