A’s breakdown

HITTING

The A’s don’t have the most star-studded lineup, but if they can boost their on-base percentage after finishing at the bottom of the league, they have enough power to raise their run total significantly. It’s an area in which the A’s might surprise, particularly with underrated Khris Davis and potential star Ryon Healy. Getting some players back to full health — Jed Lowrie, right, and platoon players Mark Canha and Josh Phegley — should help.

ROTATION

Losing Sonny Gray halfway through the spring was a blow, but the 2015 All-Star should be back in late April, and the team has some intriguing talent at the top of the rotation with Kendall Graveman, Sean Manaea and Jharel Cotton. Andrew Triggs and Raul Alcantara round things out, with plenty of depth at Triple-A, including Jesse Hahn and Daniel Gossett.

BULLPEN

The A’s might have the most experience group of relievers in the game, with four who have closing credentials: incumbent Ryan Madson, plus Sean Doolittle, Santiago Casilla and John Axford. Ryan Dull had a superb rookie season, and Liam Hendriks a nice second half. Frankie Montas, acquired in the Josh Reddick deal, has a live arm and could be a major factor. This unit should be a major strength.

BENCH

The platoon-happy A’s have Canha and Phegley available to start against left-handers, and utility infielder Adam Rosales gets a welcome return to the organization for his hustle and energy. The team might be able to go with four outfielders at times should it elect to keep an extra pitcher, but Jaff Decker would be the first choice if the A’s take five outfielders.