Shields to start Opening Day

Rays manager Joe Maddon announced his rotation for the season Wednesday.

James Shields will start the opener April 6 in Boston. He'll be followed by Scott Kazmir, Matt Garza and Andy Sonnanstine.

Shields gets the Opening Day nod because he's earned it, Maddon said.

Kaz is No. 2 because Maddon wants to split the two right-handers with the left-handed Kazmir.

As for the fifth starter, the Rays won't need one until April 15, so Maddon doesn't have to make a decision for a few more weeks.

Don't expect it to be David Price. The left-hander will more than likely start the season at Triple A.

The No. 5 spot will probably go to either Jeff Niemann or Jason Hammel with the odd-man-out headed to the bullpen.

Of course, there is always the possibility of a trade.