Reasons to be excited
The Angels added a dynamic player in Hunter, a seven-time Gold Glove Award winner who will bring legitimate power and speed to the middle of the order and charisma to the clubhouse. With Hunter pushing center fielder Gary Matthews Jr. to the corner outfield spots, Scioscia will be able to rotate right fielder Vladimir Guerrero and left fielder Garret Anderson through the designated-hitter spot, which should help both veterans avoid the nagging injuries that slowed them in recent years, especially at the end of the season. The bullpen, once again, looks strong and deep, and the offense, while still lacking power, has more weapons.
Reasons to be worried
Right-hander Kelvim Escobar, a Cy Young Award candidate for most of 2007 before fading in September, is expected to open the season on the disabled list because of discomfort in his shoulder. The Angels have the depth to absorb his loss for a few weeks -- instead of battling for the No. 5 spot, Santana and Joe Saunders will both make the team -- but another injury to a starter would tax their resources. No matter who wins the shortstop job, the Angels, who put a premium on defense, especially up the middle, will not have as strong a defensive infield as they've had in recent years.