Bobby Valentine begins his first season as the Red Sox skipper. Previously, he coached in Japan (2004-2009) and for the New York Mets (1996-2002). (Photo by J. Meric/Getty Images)
Starting Pitcher Jon Lester
Now considered to be the "ace" of the starting pitching rotation, Jon Lester will get the Opening Day start vs. the Tigers. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia
With the retirement of Red Sox captain Jason Varitek in the offseason, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, known by his teammates as "Salty," will be the team's #1 catcher going forward. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
1B Adrian Gonzalez
Undoubtedly the team's best pure hitter, first baseman Adrian Gonzalez begins his second season with the team. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
2B Dustin Pedroia
Known as "The Laser Show" and "The Muddy Chicken," second baseman Dustin Pedroia will take an even bigger leadership role now that Jason Varitek is gone. With the way the season ended last September, they could use all the leadership in the world. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
3B Kevin Youkilis
Recently engaged to Tom Brady's sister, the goal this season for third baseman Kevin Youkilis will be staying on the field. Injury problems have sidelined him for significant time over the past few seasons. He also has the flexibility to play first base and DH, if needed. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Designated Hitter David Ortiz
At 36 years old and still producing quality numbers, longtime DH David "Big Papi" Ortiz seems to have found the Fountain of Youth. However, he is on a 1-year contract and if his production doesn't continue, this could very well be his last season in a Red Sox uniform. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Infielder Mike Aviles
Infielder Mike Aviles will start the year at shortstop. He has played third base in the past, which gives the Sox flexibility should Kevin Youkilis get injured. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury
Jacoby Ellsbury had a MONSTER 2011 season, hitting for power and displaying his defensive skills, earning a Gold Glove award. He also finished second in MVP voting. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Outfielder Darnell McDonald
Darnell McDonald will see significant playing time in the early going with Carl Crawford starting the season on the disabled list. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Outfielder Ryan Sweeney
New acquisition Ryan Sweeney will be the team's starting right fielder. He bats left and throws left too. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Outfielder Cody Ross
Signing with the Red Sox in the offseason, this is now his 6th team in 9 years. He is a platoon outfielder, meaning he'll get starts as people get injured or need rest. With Carl Crawford on the DL to start the year, look for Ross to see some significant playing time. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Relief Pitcher Alfredo Aceves
Alfredo Aceves will start the year at closer now that new acquisition Andrew Bailey will be out until at least the All-Star Break. Aceves is the Red Sox Swiss Army knife pitcher: He can start, come in for long relief, be the 8th inning set-up man, and also close. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Starting Pitcher Josh Beckett
Josh Beckett will serve as the team's #2 starting pitcher. Injuries are always a concern for Beckett, who has a tendency to miss starts if he's not feeling 100%. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Starting Pitcher Clay Buchholz
Buchholz will be the team's #3 starting pitcher. He went on the disabled list in June of 2011 with back problems. It was diagnosed as a stress fracture in August and he missed the rest of the season. Look for Clay to have a bounce-back year. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Starting Pitcher Daniel Bard
Bard will make the move from the bullpen to the starting rotation, serving as the team's 4th starter. Previously an 8th inning set-up man, pay close attention early on to see how Daniel adjusts to his new role. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Starting Pitcher Felix Doubront
Left-hander Felix Doubront rounds out the starting rotation as the #5 pitcher. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Infielder Nick Punto
Serving as a utility infielder for the world champion St. Louis Cardinals during the 2011 season, Punto will have the same role here with the Red Sox. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Catcher Kelly Shoppach
Known for his defensive ability, Shoppach will be the team's backup catcher. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Relief Pitcher Mark Melancon
Melancon was the Houston Astros' closer during the 2011 season. Traded to the Red Sox in the offseason, he will be one of the team's most counted on relief pitchers, possibly as the 8th inning set up man. (AP Photo/Al Behrman)
Relief Pitcher Scott Atchison
Atchison appeared in 17 games last season with an ERA of 3.26 for the Sox. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Relief Pitcher Vicente Padilla
Not able to earn a starting gig, Vicente Padilla will start the year in the bullpen. Should injuries arise, Padilla has the ability to close, start, and be a reliever. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Relief Pitcher Matt Albers
Albers appeared in 56 games last season for the Red Sox with a below average ERA of 4.73. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Relief Pitcher Michael Bowden
Bowden began 2011 down in Pawtucket for the Red Sox AAA affiliate. He was called up at times by the Sox due to injuries. 1 year later, he will start the season in the big leagues. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Relief Pitcher Franklin Morales
The hard-throwing left-hander will provide the Red Sox with added depth in the bullpen. He has had control issues in the past. If he can straighten out those accuracy issues, he could be a very solid pitcher. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Relief Pitcher Justin Thomas
Drafted by Seattle in 2005, Thomas has had trouble sticking with major league teams. He was signed to a minor league contract by the Sox in November 2011 but will start the year in Boston. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
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