Can Pablo Sandoval play third base?

The Sox open camp with eight spots of their lineup spoken for. The only question is whether Sandoval can play third base. Sandoval (top right) has a .651 OPS over 129 games since agreeing to a five-year, $95 million deal before the 2015 season. He missed most of 2016 recovering from shoulder surgery, an injury that was suddenly discovered after he reported to spring training out of shape and lost his job. To his credit, Sandoval used the year off to get in significantly better condition. How that translates to the field is ultimately what matters. The Sox seem convinced Sandoval can at least be adequate, as their only other options at third are utility players Brock Holt and Josh Rutledge. Sandoval may never be worth the money the Sox invested in him, but it’s not too late to salvage something out of his acquisition.

Who replaces David Ortiz?

That’s an easy answer: nobody. Or is it everybody? The Red Sox passed on free agents Jose Bautista, Matt Holliday, and Edwin Encarnacion, and instead improved their rotation and bullpen. If Mitch Moreland can hold down first base against righthanders, look for Hanley Ramirez (middle right) to thrive as a DH. He has a 1.014 OPS in 155 career plate appearances in that role. The Sox also will use the DH spot to give players such as Dustin Pedroia some time off their feet. The Sox did not want to block the path of Triple­ A first baseman Sam Travis, a slashing hitter with great potential. Ortiz’s presence will be missed. But this is still an offense capable of scoring 800 runs.

How will the rotation shake out?

Rick Porcello, David Price, and Chris Sale have their spots locked up and may be the best trio in the majors. They have combined for two Cy Young Awards and 10 All-Star selections. Price had a turbulent first season in Boston but still won 17 games and pitched 230 innings. Look for him to build on a strong final two months of 2016. Drew Pomeranz, Eduardo Rodriguez, and Steven Wright are competing for the other two spots. Pomeranz and Wright were All-Stars last season but have lingering medical concerns. Pomeranz had a stem cell injection in his left elbow after last season and Wright only recently was able to throw without discomfort in his right shoulder. Rodriguez has the talent but has yet to show consistency. Finding a trustworthy No. 4 starter is crucial for this team. Right now, it’s unclear who that is. There’s also a lack of depth in the top levels of the minors.

Is the bullpen deep enough?

The Sox seemingly have so many capable relievers that some may be forced to start the season with Triple A Pawtucket. But do they have enough championship-level relievers? Craig Kimbrel is a top-shelf closer, but his setup men are a largely untested bunch. Joe Kelly has a 4.70 ERA since joining the Sox. Newcomer Tyler Thornburg (below left) will be in the American League for the first time after pitching for Milwaukee in relative anonymity. Matt Barnes shows much promise but has one game of playoff experience. Carson Smith is expected to return from Tommy John surgery sometime in June. By September, don’t be surprised if he’s in an important role.

Can Benintendi meet high expectations?

The Sox had seven players start at least one game in left field last season, none more than 55 times. Benintendi finally claimed the job in August and was impressive. The 22-year-old has an advanced approach at the plate and more power than his frame would suggest. His defensive skills will be an advantage, too. In a lineup loaded with righthanded hitters, the lefthanded-swinging Benintendi may fit best hitting second. That’s a lot to ask of a player still eligible for Rookie of the Year, but Benintendi shows the makings of a star. There’s a reason the Sox refused to include him in trade discussions.

PETER ABRAHAM