O’s to open with Gausman
The Baltimore Orioles will have a new starter for their opener for the first time in the past four years. Manager Buck Showalter yesterday tabbed Kevin Gausman to start on Opening Day next Monday against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Chris Tillman was ruled out of the opener when camp opened because of a sore right shoulder.
Gausman, who was 9-12 with a 3.61 ERA last season, wasn’t surprised by the announcement.
“Thought I might have a chance obviously with Tilly out,” Gausman said. “If Chris is healthy right now, it’s his game to start. But happy, excited, a lot of things to be thankful for in my life right now. Obviously an exciting time for my family and obviously looking forward to it.”
Tillman, who had started the previous three openers, was hoping to become the first Orioles pitcher since Jim Palmer (1974-77) to start four straight. Instead, Tillman will open 2017 on the disabled list.
Gausman is in his fifth season with Baltimore, but this will be the first time he begins the season in the starting rotation.
“I had some guys to pick from. I just thought Kevin was best equipped in a lot of different areas,” Showalter said. “Kevin is the guy who can help us put our best foot forward.”
Showalter decided on Dylan Bundy for Game 2, and after Wade Miley throws today, a decision will be made on Game 3.
Soler to rest
Kansas City Royals outfielder Jorge Soler will likely begin the season on the disabled list after straining his oblique on a swing in a minor league game. An MRI revealed a Grade 1 strain, and Soler will rest for 5-7 days before slowly resuming baseball activities, meaning he’ll miss Opening Day against the Minnesota Twins.
Also, Royals manager Ned Yost said Raul Mondesi, 21, won the competition to start at second base. . . .
First baseman James Loney was released by the Texas Rangers and knuckleballer Eddie Gamboa was assigned to Triple A.
Nats nix Nathan
Joe Nathan was released by the Washington Nationals. Nathan, 42, ranks second among active pitchers and eighth in MLB history with 377 career saves.
The Nationals also unconditionally released reliever Matt Albers. ...
The Cincinnati Reds released outfielder Ryan Raburn.