Rays tab Price for opening day start

Tampa Bay Rays starter David Price has been officially named as the team's opening day starter, manager Joe Maddon announced Tuesday.

The reigning American League Cy Young Award winner will start April 2 when the Rays host the Baltimore Orioles at Tropicana Field.

Though not a surprise, Price seemed excited with the news.

"It means a lot just to be the guy that takes the ball for the organization, first and foremost, it's very special, and being at home," Price told reporters. "I'm throwing the first pitch for our season. That means a lot as well. If you're on the road, the opposing team gets to pitch first. It's special for me to be able to run out onto that field first, lead our team out there being the Rays. It is very special."

This is Price's second opening day assignment, in 2011. Former Rays hurler James Shields took the ball last season. Price, 27, went 20-5 with a 2.56 ERA last season.