A circular stapling device includes structure to position an anvil assembly in proper alignment with a cartridge assembly prior to firing of the stapling device. The stapling device includes an anvil assembly, a cartridge assembly including a staple cartridge and shell housing, and an anvil retainer that has a proximal portion including a longitudinal rib and a distal portion including at least one second longitudinal rib. The first longitudinal rib is received within a slot formed within the shell housing to prevent rotation of the anvil retainer in relation to the shell housing. The at least one second longitudinal rib is received within a longitudinal channel of the anvil assembly to prevent rotation of the anvil assembly in relation to the anvil retainer. The presently disclosed structure obviates the need for splines and the disadvantages associated with the use of splines.