Translation guide
The set of players who begin a sports game. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with スタメン (a loanword from 'starting member') or 先発メンバー. The choice depends on context and formality.
The group of players who start a game for a team.
Abbreviation of 'starting member'. Very common in casual conversation and sports commentary. Used across many sports.
Today's starting lineup has been announced.
He was chosen for the starting lineup.
Literally 'starting members'. More formal than スタメン, often used in written contexts or official announcements.
The starting lineup will be announced just before the game.
Full loanword from 'starting member'. Less common than スタメン, but understood. Sometimes used in official contexts.
A rookie made the starting lineup.
スタメン is the go-to term in everyday conversation and sports broadcasts. 先発メンバー is preferred in newspapers, official team announcements, and formal writing. Both refer to the same concept.
to play in the starting lineup
to be named in the starting lineup