AROUND THE BASES

Aaron Judge aiming at his own home-run record, Shohei Ohtani trending with every pitch and swing, Dusty Baker trying to win another World Series ring. All-stars in different spots, a new scheduling concept featuring each team facing all 29 opponents. If it sounds like these plot lines are from a movie, it’s true. Opening day is Thursday with a full slate of games. And there’s no snow in the forecast at any of them.

Sho- time

All eyes will be on Shohei Ohtani when he starts for the Los Angeles Angels at Oakland. Here’s what fans will really watch: Where will the two-way sensation wind up? Quite possibly the most popular and talented player on the planet, Ohtani clinched the World Baseball Classic for Japan and earned the MVP trophy by striking out Angels teammate Mike Trout. Ohtani can become a free agent after this year.

New homes

Two-time Cy Young Award winner Jacob deGrom bolted New York for Texas … Threetime Cy Young winner Justin Verlander, a model of power pitching, now on the mound for the Mets … Trea Turner slid over to join pal Bryce Harper on the Phillies … AL batting champion Luis Arráez was traded from Minnesota to Miami … Maybe the most intriguing newcomer: Red Sox outfielder Masataka Yoshida. He powered Japan in the WBC and was pencilled into the Boston cleanup spot even before his major-league debut.