Norris named Astros' Opening Day starter

Bud Norris will get the ball on Opening Day when the Houston Astros make their debut in the American League against the Texas Rangers.

The Astros named Norris on Wednesday as their starter for the March 31 season opener. For the right-hander, it will be his first opening-day assignment. As a four-year veteran in the Astros' rotation, Norris got the nod over Lucas Harrell.

Last season, Norris finished 7-13 with a 4.65 ERA in 29 starts. Meanwhile, Harrell was 11-11 with a 3.76 ERA in 32 starts last year.

The Astros also announced that pitcher Jordan Lyles will start the season in triple-A.