Rick Porcello, RHP, Tigers Another rookie - a 6-foot-5, 200-pound 20-year-old - who many AL observers believe will turn heads this season. Porcello, who threw a perfect game at Seaton Hall Preparatory School against Newark Academy in 2007, was named to the Tigers' rotation last Wednesday by manager Jim Leyland.

Alexei Ramirez, SS, White Sox The Cuban defector is home - at shortstop. After excelling in his rookie season last year at second base, batting .290 with 77 RBI and 21 home runs, the spindly Ramirez will settle in at his natural shortstop position.

Travis Hafner, DH, Indians Cleveland's hopes of returning to prominence rest heavily on the surgically repaired right shoulder of their designated hitter. Between 2004 and 2007, Hafner tore up the AL, hitting 127 home runs while driving in 434 runs.

Ken Griffey Jr., LF, Mariners So he's turning 40 this year and not the player he once was. But who won't be interested to see how his return to the team where he played his first 11 years in the major leagues will work out.

Mark Teixeira, 1B, CC Sabathia, LHP, A.J. Burnett, RHP, Yankees This trio will forever be linked as a package deal after the Yankees shelled out $423-million (U.S.) to lure them to the Big Apple as free agents. It could turn into one of the most expensive flops in pro sports history if they don't lead the Yankees back to the postseason.

Robert MacLeod

SIX TO WATCH NATIONAL LEAGUE

Hanley Ramirez, SS, Marlins The Marlins have won the World Series about every six years in their existence (1997 and 2003) and they have the pitching. Not to mention rising star Ramirez, 2006 NL rookie of the year.

Clayton Kershaw, LHP, Dodgers Derek Lowe's innings must be replaced and this 21-year-old is being counted on for 200 after throwing 1072/3 in the majors as a 20-year-old.

Kevin Gregg, RHP, Cubs Beat out Carlos Marmol for the closer's role. Had 61 saves for the Marlins in two years, but can he close for a World Series contender?

Tim Lincecum, RHP, Giants A threat for the ERA, strikeouts and wins titles. Guess the Giants knew what they were doing when they didn't trade him for Toronto outfielder Alex Rios.

Joey Votto, 1B, Reds Got to have a Canadian, no? If the Reds are to be a true dark horse, he'll need a monster year.

Manny Ramirez, LF, Dodgers The best show in Baseball. Period.

Jeff Blair