@bzrd I think Bieber is a special case since he was hurt last year. They're being overly cautious with him.

Civale, Plesac, Quantrill, and McKenzie have all pitched 8-10 innings to Bieber's 4.2. 

The G's know they don't have much offense and need to win a lot of close, low scoring games. They need to keep their starters healthy and are taking it very slow this spring. They seem to be playing the long game. 

@pros I understand the issue with Bieber but a slow start is bad.  Remember, you can't win a pennant in April and May but you can lose one.

How long can a Major League Baseball team survive with an eight man batting order. 

It's hard with an auto-out in the lineup. I won't lay that at Lavastida's feet. It's hard for young players when they aren't getting regular ABs.