Who and What to Watch at The Masters this Year

The Masters has arrived! It’s actually been upon us since Corey Connors made the last putt in San Antonio, but nonetheless the most anticipated golf week of the year is upon us.

Nestled in the left corner of the 13th tee box, Jordan Spieth hits…

Nestled in the left corner of the 13th tee box, Jordan Spieth hits his drive past the blooming azaleas during second round action of the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on Friday, April 10,… Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images

I have the pleasure of golfing throughout the calendar year based on my location in the southeast, but this week is the unofficial start of the golf season for most across the country, particularly in the northeast.

So if you still have snow on the ground while watching the tournament, put the clubs in your hands and take those sweet practice swings in the living room with the players…just be aware of your surroundings as we don’t want broken TVs or angry significant others when the lamp breaks.

Unlike other majors on the PGA Tour, Augusta rarely changes. There is one change to the course from years’ past however, and that change is on Magnolia.

The difficult 5th hole has a new tee box this year and is going to play upwards of 500 yards, so a notoriously difficult tee ball has now become even more critical to avoid a possible big number.

Trees guard both sides of the fairways and two bunkers are to be avoided on the left side of the fairway, so those who work the ball right-to-left really need to avoid a pull on this hole. The players who will play a fade into this hole will have less difficulty avoiding trouble, but if they let their guard down they could also be in for a world of hurt.

Masters champion Jordan Spieth walks past a tributary to Rae’s Creek…

Masters champion Jordan Spieth walks past a tributary to Rae’s Creek at No. 13 during Practice Round 1 at Augusta National Golf Club on Monday, April 4, 2016. Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images

When we think about particular golf holes at Augusta National we often think of Amen Corner. The 11th, 12th, and 13th holes have Rae’s Creek in play and that creek has broken the hearts of many players over the years.

Rae’s Creek will, as always, play a big role and any player who avoids the water throughout the tournament is often in contention on Sunday afternoon. In recent memory we’ve seen Jordan Spieth find the creek to dash any hopes of a repeat win in 2016, and Sergio made an absolute mess of the 13th (with a 13) last year in the opening round.

The field should take my advice, because when I come upon a hole with hazards I don’t even look at the trouble. Focus on a spot on the green and let it rip, fellas.

Directional signs point to Amen Corner during Practice Round 2 at…

Directional signs point to Amen Corner during Practice Round 2 at Augusta National Golf Club on Tuesday, April 5, 2016. Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images

I do have favorites to win this week, and yes I meant that to be plural because I can’t focus in on one particular player.

I’d love to see Rory win because he’s my favorite player and I’d like to see him complete the grand slam, but I don’t have enough confidence to flat out say he’ll win.

I also like Justin Rose because, in my opinion, he’s the most complete player coming into the week. He also treats his greens at his vacation home to emulate Augusta National greens, so he may have a lot of confidence putting this week.

Justin Rose of England plays a shot during a practice round prior to…

Justin Rose of England plays a shot during a practice round prior to The Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on April 08, 2019 in Augusta, Georgia. Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images

Then there’s Rickie Fowler who’s still in search of his first major title and has played extremely well here in the past. Jordan Spieth seems to find whatever is missing during this week and hasn’t finished worse than T-11 in five trips at this event.

And of course there’s Tiger Woods who has four green jackets. Will his 15th major title come this week?

Tiger Woods of the United States looks on during a practice round…

Tiger Woods of the United States looks on during a practice round prior to The Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on April 08, 2019 in Augusta, Georgia. Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images

Whether we see a repeat or first-time winner at Augusta, it’ll be a win that defines a career. It’s a tournament and golf course that all golfers dream of playing and the winner basically represents the entire golfing community across the globe.

I hope you’re all as excited as I am and are able to soak in the great spectacle that is The Masters. If you have a clear-cut favorite to win this week, let me know on Twitter (@Sault0885) or on Instagram (@jason.saulter). I’d also like to hear from others what you look forward to the most during this tournament. Take care and Happy Masters Week.

Cover Image via Instagram