Spring training officially opened Friday as a painfully slow offseason finally came to a close.

While it's best not to focus too much on spring results, the six-week exhibition schedule is a necessary part of the season and the preparation is integral to getting players back on track. Whether it's an opportunity to make a strong first impression, battle back from injury, set up for a huge payday, or extend a career, these 10 players will be intriguing to watch this spring:

Shohei Ohtani, Angels

There isn't a more fascinating player in the majors than Ohtani. The Japanese star will attempt to be a two-way player as the Angels plan to deploy him as a starter and an occasional designated hitter on non-pitching days. Ohtani will make his spring debut on the mound Saturday, though when he'll receive his first at-bat remains in question. How the Angels manage Ohtani's spring schedule will be interesting to watch and could provide some insight into how they'll schedule his workload during the regular season.

David Price, Red Sox

It's been almost one full year since Price began feeling elbow soreness during a simulated game, jump-starting a challenging season both on and off the field. The left-hander arrives at camp healthy and with a renewed attitude, which is good news in Boston as there might not be a pitcher in the majors under more pressure to succeed. Price is in Year 3 of a seven-year deal ($157 million remaining) and while he insists he has no intention of opting out, he has the option to re-enter free agency at the end of the season. If the Red Sox want a third straight American League East title they'll need Price to be healthy and effective, and a strong spring will help alleviate any lingering concerns regarding his once-ailing elbow.

Tim Tebow, Mets

Tebow survived his first season of minor-league baseball and returns to the Mets with an opportunity to prove himself in major-league camp this spring. While the organization called up the former Heisman Trophy winner from minor-league camp for a few games last March (4-for-27 with eight strikeouts in nine games), they'll keep him as a full-time fixture with the big club this time around. Tebow is an extreme long shot to even sniff an Opening Day roster spot, but Mets general manager Sandy Alderson believes he can reach the majors one day. How he fares against major-league talent will go a long way in deciding that over the next few weeks.

Miguel Cabrera, Tigers

Cabrera is coming off the worst season of his career, failing to reach the All-Star Game for the first time since 2009. The 34-year-old dealt with injuries and off-field issues, but claims he's healthy and isn't distracted by an ongoing paternity suit. That's welcome news for the Tigers, who still owe Cabrera $184 million over the next six seasons. Detroit is bracing for a long rebuild and while Cabrera's performance likely won't move the needle in terms of results either way, a return to his MVP-caliber form might help the Tigers find a trade partner in order to help take some of the financial burden off their books.

Bryce Harper, Nationals

All eyes will be on Harper as he plays out what could be his final year in Washington. The five-time All-Star won't discuss his impending free agency during the season, so it'll be his play that will do all the talking. Harper is expected to set a free-agent record with his next contract, and if he's able to replicate his 2015 MVP season, it's not unfathomable to think the 25-year-old could land a $400-million deal. Harper bashed a spring-high eight homers last year, setting the tone for a monster season shortened by injury.

Giancarlo Stanton, Yankees

The reigning National League MVP should be motivated after receiving his much-desired move to a contender. Coming off a 59-homer campaign, Stanton is set to continue putting up enormous power numbers with his move to the AL East, while playing in the very hitter friendly Yankee Stadium. How Stanton meshes with Aaron Judge, Gary Sanchez, and Greg Bird will be intriguing, as will how opposing teams attack this offensive juggernaut. With expectations come enormous pressure, however, and it'll be interesting to see how Stanton handles the spotlight that comes with donning pinstripes.

Bartolo Colon, Rangers

Colon is trying to keep his MLB dream alive at 44. The 20-year veteran will attempt to crack the Texas Rangers' roster after receiving a minor-league deal earlier this winter. There's an opportunity for Colon to earn a rotation spot, but he'll need to be much better than last season when he posted a 6.48 ERA across 143 innings. Part of Colon's motivation to keeping his career going is his desire to become the all-time wins leader among Latin-American pitchers. He enters 2018 just five wins shy of tying Dennis Martinez's record of 245.

J.T. Realmuto, Marlins

Realmuto is one of the last remaining core pieces from a Marlins roster that was completely dismantled this winter. Despite asking for a trade, the catcher breaks into the spring still with the club, but whether he remains until Opening Day is a story to watch. Aside from Jonathan Lucroy, there aren't any impact catchers left in free agency, and an injury behind the plate for a contender could result in a phone call to the Marlins. Realmuto is one of the majors' best young catchers and is under team control through the 2020 season, making him an incredibly attractive piece for suitors.

Evan Longoria, Giants

After spending the first decade of his career in Tampa Bay, Longoria will take his first hacks in the Cactus League as a member of the Giants. The three-time All-Star has a lot to prove coming off a down season and he'll want to make a good impression with the club that's taking over the five years remaining on his contract. Third base has been a black hole for San Francisco in recent years, and if the team wants to get back to the postseason, it'll need Longoria to play a major part in the offense.

J.D. Martinez, Red Sox

Martinez reportedly agreed to a five-year deal with the Red Sox earlier this week, but the processing of the results of his physical have caused a delay of the official announcement. The slugger will eventually take the field and it'll be interesting to watch how he transforms Boston's lineup. The Red Sox finished last in the AL in home runs last season - a department that Martinez certainly addresses. JetBlue Park - the team's spring ballpark - is an exact replica of Fenway Park, which should offer a preview of the type of damage Martinez can offer in Boston this season.

(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)