I think it behooves the team to start the season with Dallas McPherson on the disabled list; not only does this afford him a measured rehabilitation in a minor league camp, it would give his roster spot - and an audition - to Maicer Izturis or Lou Merloni.
With our first ten games against Texas and Kansas City, we can afford to risk a little less pop in the lineup in favor of a healthy rookie for the season. And choosing the right bench players is an underrated, important consideration.