Baseball Beat: Monday, March 31st

Here is the rundown for the Monday, March 31st edition of Baseball Beat. Charley Steiner is broadcasting the Los Angeles Dodgers home opener today, so Chuck Wilson will be hosting. All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: John Rawlings, The Sporting News
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Mark Zuckerman, Washington Times (Nationals Beat)
1:45 p.m.
Guest: Phil Miller, St. Paul Pioneer Press (Twins Beat)
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Mel Antonen, USA Today
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Dave Sims, Broadcaster, Seattle Mariners
2:45 p.m.
Guest: Thomas Harding, MLB.com (Rockies Beat)

Guest Summaries:
Rawlings discussed national headlines including last night’s opener in Washington, Atlanta Braves being picked by many experts, and previewing each division for the start of the season. Zuckerman discussed the Washington Nationals including last night’s home opener, Ryan Zimmerman’s dramatic walk-off home run, increased revenue streams, long-term organizational plan, and how the new Nationals Park lacks a signature piece. Miller discussed the Minnesota Twins including Torii Hunter’s return to Minneapolis today, Carlos Gomez winning the centerfield job, and how many are overlooking the Twins this year. Antonen discussed national headlines including last night’s opener in Washington, how Nationals Park is missing the “WOW” factor, and previewing each division. Sims discussed the Seattle Mariners including today’s home opener, Erik Bedard’s start, and Dave Niehaus throwing out the first pitch today. Harding discussed the Colorado Rockies including today’s road opener in St. Louis, defending their National League championship, and Jayson Nix replacing Kaz Matsui.