Blue Jays choose LHP Happ as Opening Day starter

The Toronto Blue Jays have selected left-hander J.A. Happ to be their Opening Day starter against the New York Yankees on March 29.

The 35-year-old Happ will be starting a season opener for the first time in his 12-year career.

"He's just a reliable guy," Blue Jays manager John Gibbons told reporters of the reasoning for choosing Happ. "He's going to go out there, and nine times out of 10, he's going to give you a chance to win. That's all you can ask for. He's really turned into a good workhorse for us. He's one of those guys you look forward to the days he pitches."

Happ is a combined 30-15 over the past two seasons. He went a career-best 20-4 with 3.18 ERA in 2016 before going 10-11 with a 3.53 ERA last season.

Happ, who has a 92-76 career mark, appreciated receiving the nod for the opener, which he took as a show of confidence from the Toronto brass.

"It feels good and I haven't always had that," Happ said. "After being here the last few years, and having great experiences for the most part, it's nice to feel that confidence they have in me and the trust level. That's something as a player that you strive for so it feels good to have that."

Gibbons said that Happ will be followed in the rotation by right-handers Aaron Sanchez, Marco Estrada and Marcus Stroman. Left-hander Jaime Garcia will be the fifth starter.

--Field Level Media