What's next for Wild Things?

Now that they've hired Todd Marlin to run the franchise's daily operations, cleaned house in the ticketing department, changed job responsibilities for several front-office employees and hired Darin Everson, pictured, as manager, the focus for the Wild Things becomes putting together a team.

Washington has announced the signing of only five players -- outfielders Matt Cotellese and Mark McGonigle, first basemen Adam Amar and Cory Wine, and infielder Rich Michalek. Pitchers Craig Snipp and Nick Petersen have retired and pitcher Brian McCullough has been released. The Wild Things picked up the option on 13 others players including seven pitchers.

What areas will gain the most attention of Everson and general manager Ross Vecchio during the weeks leading up to spring training? Here's thinking the left side of the infield and pitching will be the priorities (isn't pitching always a priority?). The catching situation must be cleared up and a decision must be made on what to do with the remaining Veteran roster spot.

Chris Raniere is the only shortstop or third baseman on the roster with pro experience, so I'd expect at least two players will be signed after minor-league spring training to fill those positions. If Michael Parker returns, that will solidify second base. Amar would have the inside track for the first base job with Wine, son of Penn State coach Robbie Wine, having a shot to play first or the outfield.

Alan Robbins and Kyle Obal are the only catchers on the roster. Obal had just 11 at-bats last year and Robbins is an L2, which is usually a roster spot reserved for an impact hitter. That's something Robbins has never been in his career. His reputation is that of a solid defensive catcher, which means Washington is likely to be in the market for two catchers.

The holdover pitchers are lefty Jason Neitz and right-handers Andy Schindling, Keith Meyer, Zach Groh, Rob Hedrick, Michael Lucas and Justin Edwards.

The Frontier League voted last year to increase the number of L2 (players with the equivalent of two full seasons in professional ball) roster spots to three beginning in the 2010 season. That leaves with the Wild Things with one open Vet spot and one L2 (two if Robbins is not back). If you build your team the right way, then the Vets and L2s are the guys who should carry your team.

The Wild Things have plenty of roster flexibility, but finding a shortstop and third baseman and putting together a pitching staff should be at the top of Everson's to-do list.