Tillman named opening day starter

SARASOTA, Fla. - For the second consecutive year, Chris Tillman will take the mound as the Orioles' starting pitcher on opening day.

It's a streak that could continue to grow, given his progression over the past few seasons.

Manager Buck Showalter confirmed this morning that Tillman will start against the Rays on April 6 at Tropicana Field.

Tillman, who turns 27 next month, went 13-6 with a 3.34 ERA in 34 starts last year and exceeded 200 innings for the second consecutive season. He's 29-13 in 67 starts over the past two seasons and 45-31 with a 4.00 ERA in 118 games with the Orioles, who brought him to the majors for the first time in 2009.

Tillman made 36 starts for the Orioles over his first three seasons and posted ERAs of 5.40, 5.87 and 5.52. He wasn't included on the opening day roster in 2012, didn't make his first appearance until July 4 and went 9-3 with a 2.93 ERA in 15 starts over 86 innings.

The Rays are a familiar opponent for Tillman, who's 4-6 with a 4.08 ERA in 14 career starts against them. He's 1-2 with a 3.41 ERA in five starts at Tropicana Field.

The Orioles and Tillman's representative, Danny Horwits from Beverly Hills Sports Council, have been negotiating a contract extension. Talks progressed to the point where figures have been discussed. However, an agreement isn't imminent, according to sources, and negotiations will cease on opening day.

Tillman has two years of arbitration eligibility remaining before be can become a free agent.

Wei-Yin Chen and Miguel Gonzalez are expected to start the other two games of the opening series, with Bud Norris starting the home opener on April 10, but it's not confirmed.