Kuzul

A number of MLB teams are not at full strength at this point in the year because some of their players are still recovering from offseason surgeries and spring injuries.These players can provide a big boost once they return, and they can help change a team from one that is struggling to one that is fighting for a playoff spot.Sometimes, the impact is more than what the player does on the field. In certain cases, their leadership ability is invaluable.The following players will have a big impact on their team's performance once they return.Begin Slideshow

The start of a new season does not mean that MLB managers gets a fresh slate. Many of them have to worry about their job security based on their team's performance from the previous years.Other managers know that they have job security unless their team's season goes horribly awry.The managers have been ranked entering the 2013 season on the following criteria: 2012 performance, chances of living up to 2013 expectations and a hot seat/pressure ranking. For the pressure ranking: the more pressure, the lower the number. Managers that joined new teams were evaluated based on their last job in the majors. Skippers also get two bonus points for each postseason appearance in the past three years.The managers with the lowest scores are at the highest risk of losing their job at some point in 2013 or once the season ends.Begin Slideshow

A number of players in the big leagues can wow fans with their performances on the field, but some of them also have incredibly interesting backstories about their road to the major leagues.Many players have had to deal with personal issues or injuries and have persevered to reach the MLB. Movies have been made about players like this in the past, such as The Rookie, which was based on Jim Morris' career.That film was seen by a number of people and made over $75 million (h/t IMDB). Baseball fans would certainly be interested in other films like this.Begin Slideshow

With the 2013 World Baseball Classic right around the corner, it is a good time to look at some of the top baseball countries from around the globe. Not all of these nations' stars will be participating in the big event, but a number of the favorites are sending some of their best talents.There are a number of countries that are known for producing big MLB stars. This ranking will look at current players in the MLB and the nations that they are from. The countries are not ranked in any particular order.Begin Slideshow

While it is evident that the World Baseball Classic is filled with superstars, there are also some lesser-known players that get the chance to shine during baseball's big tournament.Players from around the world can make a name for themselves on an international stage. For players that are in the minor leagues, this tournament could lead their respective teams to speed up their timetable.Even though it is fun to watch the superstars put on a show, make sure you keep an eye out for the under-the-radar players at the World Baseball Classic.Begin Slideshow

Each year there are a number of pitchers who get off to a good start during spring training and then are able to carry their performances over to the regular season.These breakout pitchers can have huge impacts on the playoff races around the MLB. While every team is looking for these starters, they are not easy to find.This season will be no different, and there are a number of starters who could end up being these breakout players. The following five pitchers all have a chance to have breakout years.Begin Slideshow

Injuries are a part of the game of baseball, but that does not mean that they are easy for teams to deal with.One injury can greatly impact the trajectory of a team's season and can take them from a playoff team to one that is searching for answers in the offseason.Every major league team has a player with some injury concerns heading into the 2013 season. Some players are coming off of surgery while others have had a history of issues.Begin Slideshow

Though the 2013 offseason is not complete, many teams already have their starting outfield set for the coming season.Others are looking at both the free-agent and trade markets to find the players whom they need. Players like Michael Bourn are still available, and they could greatly improve a team's outfield.Both players' offensive and defensive abilities were considered for these rankings.Begin Slideshow

Being a superstar does not ensure that a player will stay with one team for a long time. There are a number of other factors at play, and this could lead teams to deal talented players for huge returns.Some teams will look to deal their stars that are closing in on free agency so that they can get something in return for them. Other stars may be dealt because they do not mesh with the current roster that they are on.Blockbuster deals are also interesting because they can have a significant impact on the league. There should be at least a few of these deals in 2013.Begin Slideshow

With all of the moves that they have made over the past few months, there is no doubt that there will be a lot of pressure on the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2013. The team is expected to have a payroll of at least $225 million according to Mike Bauman of MLB.com, which would be the largest in league history.Despite making a few trades to bring in All-Star caliber players last season and spending over $200 million on starting pitchers this winter, some evaluators believe that the Los Angeles Dodgers may still not have a better team than the defending World Champion San Francisco Giants (h/t Buster Olney of ESPN).Even with the elite roster that they have assembled, it will be no easy task for the Dodgers to win the National League West. To get a better idea whether the Dodgers' spending has pushed them passed ...