Loaded Roster

With SS Xander Bogaerts, OFs Brandon Jacobs and Jackie Bradley, 2B Sean Coyle and C Christian Vazquez, high Class A Salem features the deepest lineup in the Red Sox system. The pitching staff isn't as noteworthy, headlined by enigmatic LHP Drake Britton, who can hit 96 mph and flashes a plus slider.

Leap Of Faith

After two years in the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League, SS Jose Vinicio makes the jump to low Class A Greenville and won't turn 19 until July. He's a defensive whiz who also offers good bat speed, though he still needs to add a lot of strength to his skinny 5-foot-11 frame.

Where Is That Guy?

RHP Anthony Ranaudo, who signed for $2.55 million as a sandwich pick in 2010, is absent from the Double-A Portland roster after tweaking his groin in late March. Ranaudo, who hit 97 mph with his fastball during spring training, may start for the SeaDogs as early as next week.

Time Is Running Out

C Luis Exposito once was the system's top candidate to become Boston's catcher of the future, but now he's relegated to backup duty behind Ryan Lavarnway as a 25-year-old at Triple-A Pawtucket. Exposito has some pop, but he swings and misses too much and his defense is nothing special.