At this point in Spring Training, I think everyone has to expect the Pittsburgh Pirates to go with Andrew Lambo as their starting first baseman. But if there was any hope of adding a first baseman via trade before Spring Training was out, that hope looks to be disappearing.
Ike Davis was one of the popular trade options mentioned, but is currently in a walking boot due to a calf injury. He hasn’t played in a game since March 2nd, and is scheduled for an MRI.
Meanwhile, Justin Smoak was never really made available, but it was always assumed the Mariners would eventually make him available due to their pursuit of guys like Nelson Cruz and Kendrys Morales. That, plus the addition of about a dozen 1B/RF/DH options this off-season made it hard to picture a spot for Smoak. But the Mariners have announced Smoak as their starter at first base.
The only other trade options are Mitch Moreland (who is currently projected to be in a DH platoon) and Mike Carp. I don’t see Carp being realistic. The Red Sox have no reason to deal him, since they can afford his $1.4 M and would want his production off the bench. Meanwhile, a team would probably have to overpay for him, since the Red Sox don’t really need the type of mid-level prospect that Carp would be worth.
Overall, you should expect Andrew Lambo to be the first baseman on Opening Day.
