Here’s the latest on NWL alumni that are battling for a roster spot to begin the 2009 season.

In a move that I wasn’t expecting, Blue Jays RHP Jeremy Accardo (Alexandria, ’01) has been optioned to Triple-A. Two years ago he served as the Jays closer and last year he struggled with an arm injury. The Jays apparently tried him as a starter this spring, unsuccesfully, which led to his demotion.

Brewers 3B Casey McGehee (St. Cloud, ’01) has beat out veteran Mike Lamb for the team’s reserve infielder spot and will make the opening day roster. McGehee’s great spring numbers (.370, 6 HR, 15 RBI) and his ability to play second base and first base in addition to third base likely were the difference here.

Mets OF Bobby Kielty (Kenosha, ’97) will not make the opening day roster. After spending all of 2008 in Triple-A it looks like Kielty will have to take that route again if he wants to continue his baseball career.

**Source: rotoworld.com