From Johan Santana's new team to lingering effects of the Mitchell Report, here are some of the stories to follow as the new baseball season begins.

Story: Players To Watch

Will Mitchell Report Hang Over Baseball?

The December release of the Mitchell Report, which detailed steroid use in baseball, raised a large cloud over the Major League as some of the game's top players -- including Roger Clemens and home-run king Barry Bonds -- were named as users. After a long winter of congressional meetings focused on Clemens, and Bonds' perjury and obstruction of justice charges, baseball will try to put the focus back on the game. But will the league succeed, or will doping allegations again hang over the season?

Can Red Sox Repeat?

The Boston Red Sox last year won the team's seventh World Series crown -- and its second since 2004 -- with a 4-0 sweep of the Colorado Rockies. The team worked out deals to keep World Series MVP Mike Lowell and closer Jonathan Papelbon -- who danced the jig after Boston's victory -- in the off-season. Will the moves be enough to propel the team to an eighth crown?

Will Johan Santana Lift The Mets?

After months of trade rumors, the Minnesota Twins finally worked out a deal to send ace Johan Santana to the New York Mets. The Mets made Santana a record deal for a pitcher, offering him a $150.75 million, seven-year contract. New York finished second in the NL East last season with a 88-74 record. Will their investment in Santana pay off in 2008?

Can Liriano Come Back?

After missing last season while recovering from Tommy John ligament replacement surgery, Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano is hoping for a come back in 2008. The left-hander made the All-Star squad in 2006, when he finished the year 12-3 with a 2.16 ERA with 144 strikeouts in 121 innings. So far the pitcher has said he felt good in spring training, but will he be back in top form by the start of the season?

Will Changes Lead Yankees Back To Series?

The New York Yankees made changes after last season. Owner George Steinbrenner gave control to his sons Hal and Hank, and the team named Joe Girardi the team's manager, replacing Joe Torre. But the squad also hung on to one familiar face -- Alex Rodriguez, giving the slugger a 10-year deal. Will the moves earn the Yankees -- who last won the World Series in 2000 -- another title?