Spring Training is time for new starts.  Some players prefer to dodge the annual ritual but some take it as an opportunity to turn over a new leaf.

The days of using Spring Training to “get into shape” are long gone.  Instead, players are committed to offseason programs to help cure any ills that dogged them in the previous season.

Here’s an initial look at several players and their battle with the bulge.

Brett Myers

Myers stumbled out of the gate last season, posting a 3-9 record through the first three months of the year.  He eventually found himself in the minors for a brief period, but bounced back with a 7-4 record after the All Star Break.  He has lost 30 pounds and acknowledges that his increased workouts are a direct attempt to begin the season on more positive note.

Andruw Jones

After signing a two-year 36 million dollar contract, Jones fizzled in LA and was subsequently ushered out of town.  He now lands in Texas and has apparently lost 25 pounds. The weight loss is an encouraging sign that Jones is taking this season (and perhaps his career) more seriously.  Shedding the extra load should also help him stay healthier, which has been a challenge for Jones over the past few years.

Aaron Harang

After a stellar 2007 season (16 wins, 3.73 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 218 Ks), Harang disappointed many fantasy owners last season, settling at 6-17 with a 4.78 ERA and 1.39 WHIP.  He shed 25 pounds and his 6 foot 7 frame now weighs around 235-240 lbs. 

Barry Zito

Although Zito isn’t overweight, he made a dedicated effort to an offseason workout program with teammate Brian Wilson.  Over the past two years, Zito has struggled mightily during the first half of the season, and he’s hoping the increased strength will help him get off to a faster start.  It’s been a disciplined regime, encompassing everything from weight lifting to yoga to loss-toss over a 200-foot canyon.

Luis Castillo

Castillo comes into camp about 15 pounds lighter.  The 33-year old hit .245 over 87 games in 2008, but he appears to be the Mets starting second baseman.  He’s definitely approaching the twilight of his career and the lighter physique is an attempt to hold on a little longer.

Jose A. Contreras

Conteras blew out his Achilles' tendon in August, and he was expected to return around the midpoint of 2009.  But, he’s lost 25 pounds and is apparently very far ahead of schedule.  It’s hard to believe he’s ready to return this early, so owners should remain skeptical for now.