2007 Athletics Projected Lineup

2007 Oakland Athletics

Batting Order

1. C Jason Kendall
2. CF Mark Kotsay
3. RF Milton Bradley
4. DH Mike Piazza
5. 3B Eric Chavez
6. 1B Nick Swisher
7. SS Bobby Crosby
8. LF Shannon Stewart/ Bobby Kielty
9. 2B Mark Ellis

The A's have swapped Frank Thomas' bat for Piazza's and are hoping for bounce-back seasons from Chavez and Crosby. Otherwise, it could be a long year. Kotsay's back problems have resurfaced and his health could be an issue as the spring progresses. If Kotsay misses any time, Bradley will move to CF, Swisher will take over in RF, and Dan Johnson will start at 1B. If that's the case, the No. 2 spot in the order will be up for grabs — with Ellis or Stewart the most likely candidates.

Update: Kotsay will be out 2-3 months after having back surgery. Bradley will move to CF, Swisher to RF, and Dan Johnson will start at 1B. Kielty is also recovering from knee surgery and most likely will not be ready for Opening Day.

Rotation

Dan Haren
Rich Harden
Esteban Loaiza
Joe Blanton
Joe Kennedy

Brad Halsey

Halsey is one of two leading candidates to land the fifth spot in the rotation. Although it's clear that left-hander Joe Kennedy is the front-runner, manager Bob Geren hasn't ruled out Halsey.

Closer: Huston Street